April Falls campaign welcomed by Arthritis NZ

Media Release

9 April 2013

April Falls campaign welcomed by Arthritis New Zealand

Arthritis New Zealand Chief Executive Sandra Kirby today welcomed the April Falls campaign being held by Tauranga and Whakatane Hospitals. She was referring to a month long programme to highlight fall prevention that was launched yesterday by the Bay of Plenty District Health Board.

“People who are living with arthritis are at greater risk of falls,” said Ms Kirby. “In particular, those who have arthritis in their lower limbs may have difficulty maintaining their balance, making them more susceptible to falls. And people with arthritis who are taking strong painkilling medication are also at greater risk.”

“Falls can result in serious harm. So we welcome the April Falls campaign as a valuable initiative to highlight their danger," she concluded.

Arthritis New Zealand is a national organisation that raises awareness of the more than 140 forms of arthritis, advocates for those living with arthritis; funds research, and provides support through information and advice. There are more than 530,000 New Zealanders living with arthritis.

Arthritis New Zealand supports land based and water based exercise programmes throughout New Zealand. And there are Tai Chi falls prevention classes available in Tauranga and Whakatane.

ends

© Scoop Media