Strength and balance are essential to staying independent as we age, but fall prevention isn’t just about exercise—it’s also about confidence. McKinley High School’s occupational therapy students recently partnered with kūpuna at the Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center, guiding them through exercises designed to improve stability and mobility.
Guided by a professional occupational therapist, the students—many aspiring healthcare professionals—put their knowledge into practice by assisting kūpuna with fall prevention techniques. They measured vital signs, led stability exercises, and shared strategies to help maintain mobility, aiming to determine whether kūpuna could safely continue daily activities or if further care was needed.
- Single-Leg Stance Tests: Holding this position for at least five seconds helps build balance and ankle stability, crucial for fall prevention.
- Seated Leg Lifts: Strengthening the quadriceps and hip flexors enhances walking ability and reduces instability.
- Guided Walking Drills: Focusing on posture and step control helps kūpuna move with greater confidence and safety.
Regular practice of these exercises can significantly reduce fall risk, making them essential for long-term health and mobility. However, if any kūpuna experienced difficulty with the exercises or showed signs of instability, further medical evaluation was recommended to ensure their safety and well-being.
Beyond the physical benefits, the event brought generations together through shared experiences. Kūpuna shared their commitment to staying active, while students gained valuable hands-on experience in patient care. “I felt very safe during the exercises, and it gave me the confidence to keep moving,” one kūpuna participant shared.
For students, it was an opportunity to develop essential caregiving skills and learn how to support kūpuna. “It was a wonderful experience—it gave me the opportunity to learn alongside them,” said Shirly Yang.
The collaboration has inspired interest in future partnerships between McKinley High School and local senior centers. Kūpuna left with valuable techniques to maintain their independence, while students gained a deeper understanding of how small, consistent efforts can positively impact someone’s well-being. Together, both generations took steps—both literal and figurative—toward a stronger, safer future.
