Säkra steg

Umea University

About this app

Safe Steps is based on previous research on exercise to prevent falls. The app contains exercises for balance, strength as well as steps, walking and trunk stability. The exercises are divided into several categories and are available in different degrees of difficulty so that they can be combined into an individual training program. In total there are about 70 exercises to choose from, all shown as short films.

In Säkra steg there are also information films where you can learn more about balance and exercise and preventing falls. Tips on how training can be woven into everyday activities, so-called fit-on training and carried out in an outdoor environment are also given.

In a training diary, it is possible to plan your training and set reminders. There you can also register your training and get statistics on the training carried out. A virtual physiotherapist reminds and provides encouraging feedback during exercise.

Sekra steg is developed by researchers at Umeå University in collaboration with older people over 70 years of age. The exercise program is based on previous research on exercise to prevent falls. Safe Steps is evaluated in a controlled study in which 1,628 elderly people participated and were followed up for a year. The results show that the percentage of people who fell during the year was lower among participants who had access to training with Safe Steps compared to the control group who only received information videos. Participants in the exercise group were also more likely to experience improved balance and leg strength after participating in the study.

For detailed information about the research project Säkra steg see https://www.sakrasteg.se