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Fallproof! - 2nd Edition: A Comprehensive Balance and Mobility Training Program

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FallProof! 2nd Edition

A Comprehensive Balance and Mobility Training Program

Having had the privilege of reviewing the first edition of this text nearly 7 years ago, I was pleased to learn that its success had led to the development of a second edition. Back in 2003, FallProof! brought balance and mobility, two of the most fundamental components of independent living, to the attention of a broader audience of physical activity professionals. For the first time, an integrated program of assessments and exercises aimed at improving the fall risk profile of older individuals was outlined in text form. During the intervening years, FallProof has gained an impressive amount of momentum. Its consistently positive results have served as a model for centers across the country. This has created a need for professionals with a special skill set. The Center for Successful Aging at California State University at Fullerton, the birthplace of the FallProof! program, has facilitated this process by creating a new Balance and Mobility Specialist Instructor certification.

FallProof!: A Comprehensive Balance and Training Mobility Training Program 2nd Edition begins with a solid introduction to the concept of balance, including an appropriately detailed overview of the sensory systems involved and how aging impacts them. The next section contains several chapters which detail each step of the program, from initial assessment of participants through illustrations of exercises that address each of 6 training components (center-of-gravity control, multisensory, postural strategy, gait pattern enhancement and variation, strength and conditioning, and flexibility). The exercise chapters have plenty of photos which illustrate proper form for the more complex exercises. The final section contains 2 chapters which offer practical guidance on implementing the program in terms of class management and interacting with participants to gain the best results.

This text also serves as the text for the Balance and Mobility Specialist Instructor certification and thus has some built-in "study-friendly" features, such as chapter objectives, boxed key points and reminders, and multiple choice questions at the end of each chapter. The 2nd edition has the added value of a DVD companion which includes footage of demo exercises and a class in action.

This book is highly recommended to all healthcare professionals involved in the care of older individuals. Falls remain a major threat to independent living. Given the association of falls requiring hospitalization with further morbidities, there are few preventative measures that can be taken with the same potential for improving quality of life as balance and mobility improvement.

Debra J. Rose's FALLPROOF! A COMPREHENSIVE BALANCE AND MOBILITY TRAINING PROGRAM includes a DVD video featuring testing procedures, training strategies and a sample class and provides a fine survey of a successful mobility training program no health collection should be without. There are very few specific classes on mobility, making this a key acquisition for any adult health-oriented library, especially libraries catering to senior patrons.

The 2nd Edition of FallProof! is a wonderful rewrite of the first edition. It is clear and concise. It presents research information in layman's language. The chapters are laid out with clear objectives and goals and recap with a review of key concepts. This is an excellent resource for anyone working with seniors to promote balance and reduce the risk of falls. The assessment tools, particularly the Fullerton Advanced Balance(FAB)Scale is designed to (pre/post) screen older adults to assess fall risk. It is a great tool for anyone working in community based fall prevention programs or balance classes. Dr. Rose identifies the major factors that contribute to a fall and what steps can be taken to identify and mitigate fall risk.

I am a personal trainer, specializing in working with older adults. With this population, training for balance is just as critical as training for strength. I like the way this book breaks down the different components of balance and explains some of the underlying physiology behind different exercises. I have included many of the exercises into my personal training sessions and my older adult fitness classes.

This second edition of Fallproof! is a wonderful resource for the therapist who is
working with a clientele with balance issues. The DVD is an excellent adjunct to the book!