It is possible to improve muscle strength and balance irrespective of age, but in
order for this to be effective in preventing falls and to be performed safely, it must
be sufficiently challenging to and progressive for the individual.27 This can be best
ensured by employing professionals trained to deliver specialist falls prevention
exercise programmes, as they can appropriately assess individuals at the outset of any
intervention, adapt exercises where necessary and ensure participants are progressing
at the right level, for example, by advising on the right number of repetitions and the
use of support (eg. hand holds on chairs) progressing to no support