Strength in Balance is a falls prevention program designed to help you stay active, confident and independent as you age
Falls and Balance Clinic at Essendon Physio Group.
Through personalised strength and balance training, nutrition screening and ongoing support, we'll help you reduce your risk of falls and maintain the lifestyle you love.
What is Strength in Balance?
Strength in Balance is a comprehensive 12-week program that combines expert assessment, tailored exercise sessions and nutrition support to help prevent falls and improve your overall health.
What we offer:
- Face-to-face supervision with specially trained Accredited Exercise Physiologists
- Advanced balance technology to track your progress in real time
- Small group sessions for social connection and peer support
- Nutrition screening to identify risks like frailty or malnutrition
- Multidisciplinary care that keeps your GP informed throughout your journey
Our clinically-proven program aims to help you rediscover your strength, balance and independence.
Step 1: Comprehensive Assessment
You'll start with a thorough evaluation by our Accredited Exercise Physiologist.
We'll assess your falls risk, strength, balance and overall health to create your personalised program.
Step 2: Tailored Group Sessions
Attend twice-weekly supervised sessions for 6 weeks in our fully equipped clinical gym. Each session is designed around your individual needs and delivered in a supportive group setting. You'll use resistance machines, free weights and balance tools while our team provides real-time feedback and encouragement.
Step 3: Progress Review
At the end of your 6 weeks, we'll reassess your strength, balance and mobility to show you exactly how far you've come.
We'll compare your results to your starting point and celebrate your improvements.
Step 4: Ongoing Support
Six weeks after completing the program, you'll have a follow-up consultation (in-person or by phone) to check in on your progress and ensure you have the right supports in place to continue your journey.
Every step of the way, you're supported by experts who genuinely care about your progress.
CALL TO EXPRESS YOUR INTEREST
Who is This Program For?
If you've noticed changes in your balance, strength or confidence, you're not alone. Many people over 65 experience these changes, but that doesn't mean you have to accept them. Strength in Balance is designed specifically for older adults who want to take control of their health and maintain the active, independent lifestyle they deserve.
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Are concerned about falling or have experienced a fall
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Notice changes in their balance, strength or mobility
- Want to maintain their independence and confidence
- Are looking for expert support in a welcoming environment
- Want to connect with others facing similar challenges
You don't need to be recovering from a fall or injury to benefit. Many of our participants join because they want to stay ahead of potential problems, build their confidence, or simply enjoy exercising with others who understand their goals. Wherever you are in your health journey, we're here to support you.
Program Investment
Subsidies and rebates may be available to eligible participants. Talk to our team when you book your assessment to discuss your options.
If you have a chronic disease management plan with Medicare rebates available, you may be eligible for additional support. Contact us to learn more about making this program accessible for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Strength in Balance program effective?
Three key elements set this program apart.
First, supervised face-to-face sessions ensure you're exercising safely and progressing properly within a clinically-backed protocol proven to reduce the risk of falls in adults aged 65+.
Second, we take a holistic approach to falls prevention. Alongside strength and balance training, participants undergo screening for other factors known to increase falls risk, including reduced mobility, frailty, and nutritional risk. This helps us identify barriers to healthy ageing and connect participants with additional support when needed
Third, the small group format provides both professional guidance and peer support, which research shows significantly improves adherence and long-term results.
Our use of advanced balance technology also means you can see objective proof of your progress, which keeps you motivated.
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No referral is required to join Strength in Balance. However, we encourage you to discuss the program with your GP, especially if you have existing health conditions. If you have a chronic disease management plan, your GP can help you access Medicare rebates that may offset the program cost.
What happens after the 12 weeks finish?
At your re-assessment, we'll discuss your progress and next steps to maintain your improvements. This might include joining ongoing community exercise groups, continuing with a home program, or accessing other supports. We'll also have a follow-up consultation six weeks later to check you're staying on track. Our goal is to set you up for long-term success.
How much does the program cost?
The program cost varies depending on your circumstances. Medicare rebates may be available through your chronic disease management plan, which can significantly reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket costs.
Contact our team on 03 9351 0677 to discuss your individual situation and find out what rebates or subsidies you may be eligible for.
What if I've never exercised before or haven't been active in years?
Many of our participants haven't exercised regularly in a long time. That's exactly why we start with a comprehensive assessment.
Every exercise is tailored to your current fitness level and abilities. Our team will ensure you progress safely at a pace that works for you, and you'll be surprised how quickly you build confidence.
I'm worried about falling during the session. How do you keep me safe?
Your safety and comfort is our top priority.
All sessions are supervised by qualified Physiotherapists or Accredited Exercise Physiologists trained in falls prevention. We also make use advanced balance technology to monitor your stability, and all exercises are adapted to your individual risk level. You'll only progress when you're ready.
Essendon Physio Group is a locally based allied health practice with a passion for helping our community stay healthy, active and independent.
With specialist expertise in falls prevention, balance rehabilitation and healthy ageing, we're committed to providing evidence-based care that makes a real difference in people's lives.
Referring a Patient?
Supporting Your Patients with Evidence-Based Falls Prevention
Strength in Balance offers comprehensive falls prevention care that supports your patients' long-term health and independence.
Why refer to our program?
Our program draws on established evidence demonstrating 30-40% reduction in falls risk with progressive strength and balance training, and significant improvements in balance and mobility with supervised, challenging exercise programs.
- Multidisciplinary approach combining physiotherapy, exercise physiology and dietetics
- Regular communication with referring GPs throughout the program
- Evidence-based interventions proven to reduce falls risk
- Nutrition screening to identify malnutrition and frailty
- Supervised sessions ensuring safety and proper progression
- Social engagement component to support mental wellbeing
Program Outcomes:
- Improved strength, balance and mobility
- Reduced falls risk
- Enhanced confidence and independence
- Better nutrition and overall health
- Decreased reliance on hospital and community services
Interested in learning more about referring your patients? Contact us at 03 9351 0677 or [email protected] for detailed program information and referral pathways.