A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls
Overview:
A Matter of Balance is a program designed to reduce fear of falling and increase activity levels among older adults. Trained facilitators (coaches) conduct eight two-hour sessions designed for groups of 10 to 12 participants. Participants learn to view falls and fear of falling as controllable and to set realistic goals for increasing activity. They also find ways to change the environment to reduce fall risk factors and learn simple exercises to increase strength and balance. The program serves adults who are ambulatory and able to problem-solve who are 55 and older.
Classes:
Classes are offered several times a year at libraries, faith-based organizations, senior centers, assisted living communities, and senior housing complexes. Click here for more information about current Matter of Balance classes.
Click here for a brochure about A Matter of Balance
Become A Matter of Balance Coach:
The Rockland County Deparment of Health is seeking volunteers to teach A Matter of Balance classes.
A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns about Falls, is a Fall Prevention program for senior citizens that teaches practical strategies to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels. It is offered free to the public at various sites throughout Rockland, and is taught by volunteers who are trained to become Peer Educators (coaches).
For more information about Matter of Balance or to register for the coach training, call Barbara Plasker in the Department of Health at 845-364-2501.
The National Institute on Aging's book, Exercise & Physical Activity is now available to stream directly from your computer or download the mp3 files and listen on a portable audio player. It is a very comprehensive resource for anyone who is ready to add physical activity to their lives. Here is the link The files are on the right side of the screen.
