STAND UP! Program

The STAND UP! fall prevention program is a free 12-week intensive group program. Its goal is to prevent falls and fractures in autonomous seniors who live in the community and who are concerned about falling or unsure of their balance. 

• Age 65 years and over ;
• Have fallen within the past year, be afraid of falling, or unsure of their balance ;
• Be motivated and able to take part in a group exercise program twice a week for 12 weeks.

*After you have registered, you will need to complete a selection questionnaire (on your health) before you are accepted. A program administrator will call you to go through the questions.

• Needing a walking aid (such as a cane or a walker) ;
• Obesity that restricts mobility ;
• A cardiac condition that is not controlled ;
• A degenerative disease that affects balance (such as Parkinson’s or multiple sclerosis) or the after-effects of a stroke (such as hemiparesis) ;
• Difficulty remaining in standing position for long periods of time ;
• Out of breath when at rest (dyspnea) ;
• Cognitive deficits that affect the ability to follow instructions.

• Improve balance and leg strength ;
• Learn to arrange the home and avoid risky actions ;
• Feel more able to prevent falls ;
• Help to maintain bone density in areas most vulnerable to fractures (wrists, hips, and spine) ;
• Encourage regular practice of physical activity.
   

1. Group physical activity to improve balance ;
2. Information on fall prevention ; 
3. Exercises at home. 

The program is led by a trained and qualified CIUSSS kinesiologist. It was developed to be safe and adapted to the abilities of every participant.

• Santé publique Montréal (in French)
• The West Island Seniors Resource Guide  

Information Sheets

• What you need to know about falling  
• Check if you’re at risk of falling 
• How to choose shoes to prevent falls 
• How to get up on your own after a fall 
• Knowing your medications 
• Get your vision checked 
• Take the necessary precautions when walking in winter

Programs and Workshops

• Awareness workshop on fall prevention, by FADOQ-Montréal for people over 50 years of age and their caregivers (FR only).  
• Le GO pour bouger!, physical activity for seniors (content available in 10 languages)
• The Move 50+ online platform encourages those over age 50 to be physically active.