Falls are one of the most common and costly causes of injury for older New Zealanders. Around 1 in 3 people over 65 will experience a fall each year, and that rises to 1 in 2 for those over 80 (Age Concern NZ, 2024; Osteoporosis NZ, n.d.). But that doesn’t mean falls are inevitable; with the right support and a focus on movement that builds both strength and balance, it’s possible to stay steady, independent, and active for longer.
Why strength matters
Muscle loss is a natural part of ageing. From around age 30, we lose up to 8% of our muscle mass per decade, and that rate speeds up dramatically after 60 (HUR Medical Concepts). Reduced muscle strength affects stability, reaction time, and mobility, all key contributors to fall risk.
That’s why strength and balance training is a central feature in most evidence-based fall prevention programmes. For example, the Health Quality & Safety Commission NZ recommends progressive strength and balance training.
Strength training builds back that lost muscle, improving balance, confidence, mobility, and resilience. When paired with balance-specific exercises, it becomes a powerful prevention strategy.
Falls in New Zealand, some facts:
(Sources: Age Concern NZ, HQSC, ACC, Safe Communities Foundation NZ)
Ways to reduce fall risk
Strength and balance trainingA large body of international evidence shows that training focused on balance, strength, coordination, and gait is one of the most effective ways to reduce falls in older adults.
Programs that run for 12+ weeks, include 3+ hours of exercise weekly, and challenge balance have been shown to reduce falls by up to 39% (Sherrington et al., 2016). Whether used alone or as part of a wider programme, this type of exercise is now considered best practice.
That’s why at HUR by Cubro, we offer solutions like SmartBalance and SmartTouch strength equipment, combining real-time feedback, customisable training, and measurable progress, built on the exact clinical principles recommended in leading meta-analyses (Tricco et al., 2017).
Get a comprehensive fall risk assessmentFalls are rarely random. Risk factors like postural hypotension, reduced leg strength, vision changes, confusion, or multiple medications can increase a person’s risk, but they’re often overlooked. A full screening by a clinician, physiotherapist, or trained support team helps spot these risks early (Rubenstein et al., 2006).
Modify the environmentMore than half of falls happen at home. Fixing basic hazards, like poor lighting, trip hazards, missing handrails, or low-contrast flooring, is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to prevent falls, especially when paired with strength and balance training (Tricco et al., 2017).
Review medications regularlySome medications, like sedatives, antihypertensives, and anticholinergics, are known to increase the risk of dizziness, drowsiness, or postural instability, which can contribute to falls.
Many care teams already factor medication effects into their falls prevention planning, especially after a change in condition or a recent fall. Involving pharmacists or prescribers in regular reviews can be a valuable part of that wider strategy.
Keep it goingFalls prevention is most effective when it’s consistent and ongoing. Evidence shows that sustained, progressive training works best when it’s embedded into everyday routines, through group classes, rehab programmes, or strength and balance equipment that adapts to each person’s level.
How HUR by Cubro can help
At HUR by Cubro, we use smart, air-powered strength equipment and expert support to help you and your care team prevent falls before they happen. Our approach is backed by both local and international research and tailored specifically for older adults across community, aged care, and rehab settings.
Let’s stay steady together
Falls don’t just affect mobility, they can knock confidence and independence too. But with the right support, it’s possible to feel stronger, safer, and more in control of how residents live.
If you’d like to trial any of the HUR products or just have a few questions, reach out to us - our team at Cubro is here to support you.
Originally published by HUR. Adapted by Cubro to include New Zealand-specific data and recommendations.
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