Falls are one of the major health issues in the community, being the leading cause for trauma and deaths in older people, with around 30 per cent of adults over 65 experiencing at least one fall each year.

To help locals ages over the aged of 65 reduce their risk of falls, TAFE NSW The Hills - Castle Hill students are assisting with the Western Sydney Local Health District’s community program, Stepping On, a seven-week program aimed to prevent falls.

Ava Landry who is studying a Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy), is one of students teaching participants exercises that will improve their strength and balance to prevent falls.

“I’ve really enjoyed working on the Stepping On program as it’s provided me with the opportunity to use the hands-on skills I’ve been learning throughout my course to really help the group reduce their risk of falls.

“I got to run the group through a few exercises including a flexion and extension exercise, and sitting to standing reps, which are very important when it comes to mobility at their age.

“Falls are such a big risk once people are over the age of 65 so it’s very rewarding that I’ve been able to help this group while doing what I love,” said Ms Landry.

TAFE NSW Allied Health teacher, Kathryn McKinley said the program is a great experience for the students as it provides them with an opportunity to put the practical skills they have learnt during their course into practice in a real-life setting.

“The students really benefit from working on programs like this as it gives them the chance to practice the communication and practical skills they’ve been learning in a simulated setting at TAFE NSW Castle Hill with members of the public.

“It also provides them with a great understanding of the role of an Allied Health Assistant when it comes to preparing for, setting up and running group programs, which they will do quite regularly working in the industry and on their work placements.” said Ms McKinley.

Depute Director at Population Health, Christine Newman said, “This has been a very fruitful partnership for both Western Sydney Local Health District and TAFE NSW.

“It allows Western Sydney Local Health District to meet the aims of the Stepping On Program, provides positive experiences for older adults in the Castle Hill area and gives TAFE NSW students a valuable work experience in a professional learning environment.”

To enrol in the Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy) for Semester 1, 2020 visit https://www.tafensw.edu.au/course/HLT43015-09/Certificate-IV-in-Allied-Health-Assistance-(Physiotherapy,-Occupational-Therapy) or phone 131 601.

Media contact: Emma Cawley, TAFE NSW Media Officer, emma.cawley1@tafensw.edu.au or 0412 478 415