Mobility Enhancement Cranbrook
Drop-in movement stations for adults to gain mobility
The Mobility Enhancement Program has helped over 50 adults get moving at Western Financial Place since 2021. Movements are led by Kootenay Therapy Centre with support from Active Cranbrook Physical Literacy. See the City of Cranbrook Recreation Program Guide for current dates and times.
Goals
Increase competence & confidence to move on land, water, ice, snow and wheels
Implement a self-sustaining program
Improve agility, balance, and coordination to support fall prevention
Improve health and well-being
Community-supported Success
Active Cranbrook used volunteers to initiate group instructions twice a week, and the City of Cranbrook keeps the signage up so all citizens can work through the circuit at their leisure 7 days per week.
The ME circuit consists of floor markings and signage for 12 stations that have progressive levels of activities to improve agility, balance, coordination, muscular strength and flexibility.
Mobility Enhancement is synonymous with “Fall prevention”. In addition to the self-sustaining program signage, the City continues to offer group sessions (Monday and Thursday mornings) which are extremely popular for individuals that wish to meet others as it not only improves physical health but improves social and emotional health.
Falls are common among seniors
These are often associated with physiological impairments such as impaired balance, muscle weakness, and slowed reaction time.
Benefits of community-based resistance and agility training
Reduce the risk of falls, specifically in older women with low bone density
Significantly improve functional fitness of older adults and therefore reduce the risk of falls
Decrease fear of falling, depression, and increase quality of life
Integration of bi-weekly agility training reduced fall risk by 47.5% which was presumed to be secondary to improved postural stability
Survey Results Show the Program Works
Participant survey responses over the last 2 years includes feeling more confident and competent in walking indoors and outdoors, improved arm strength, and especially increased dynamic and static balance.
Plans to Expand
Active Cranbrook hopes to expand to our neighboring communities and help reduce frailty across BC’s Interior. See our Mobility Enhancement Kimberley project for our first expansion!
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