OTAGO Exercise Program (OEP)

OTAGO is a unique program for fall prevention. Falls are common—1 in 4 Americans aged 65+ fall each year.

Every 11 seconds an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall.

OTAGO is a home-based exercise program that targets those who are at moderate-to high-risk for falls (usually someone who has already fallen).

There is strong evidence that the program builds strength and balance AND restores self-confidence, which removes fear of falling and in turn, reduces ISOL ATION.

There is also less cost to the system because there are fewer falls and therefore fewer chances of serious injury resulting in hospitalization & long-term care institutionalization.

People stay independent longer and in the community longer.

Success In Otago

“One of my graduates is an 86-year-old, Korean War veteran, who lives in a small community with his wife of 60+ years. He was falling at home and found out about our program through NWSDS.

He practiced his OTAGO like it was his job. He walked daily and completed his exercises three times a week. He progressed each time I tested him until he was able to do the stand-and-sit test faster than anyone I had seen. He passed all four, balance tests, and increased speed on his TUG (timed up-and-go) test every time.

He would always tell me that it really helped him to have me come to his house rather than having to travel to a nearby town for therapy.

He was so positive and grateful, it really made me feel good about what our program means to people who need in home services. Preventive health is the future, and this program really works for those who practice it.”