Seniors can help improve and protect their quality of life by learning about exercise and fall prevention at Winthrop-University Hospital’s free Health Update for Seniors Program, “Improve Your Balance: Exercise and More to Prevent Falls” on Wednesday, February 10, 2010. The program begins with the lecture at 1:15 PM followed by blood pressure checks at 2:45 PM. It will be held at the Mineola Community Center, located at 155 Washington Avenue in Mineola.

Falls are a major threat to the health and independence of older adults. Statistics show that one in three adults age 65 and older fall each year; of those who fall, 20% to 30% suffer moderate to severe injuries, and many of those never fully recover.

However, there are exercises that can help improve balance and tips that can help reduce the risk of falls. Linda Radler, MPA, PT, Director of Physical Therapy at Winthrop, will discuss the benefits of exercise and more, highlighting the importance of balance and demonstrating targeted exercises. A question and answer period will follow the lecture.

Seating is limited and reservations are required. To reserve a space, please call (516) 663-3916.

Health Update for Seniors is a free community health education program, presented by the Institute for Family Care - Geriatric Health Services and the Winthrop Home Health Agency. For information on other programs at the Hospital, please call 1-866-WINTHROP.