Have you turned down a chance to go out with family or friends because you were concerned about falling? Have you cut down on a favorite activity because you might fall? If so, A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls is a program for you.
Fear of falling can be just as dangerous as falling itself. People who develop this fear often limit their activities, which can result in physical weakness, making the risk of falling even greater. Many older adults also experience increased isolation and depression when they limit their interactions with family and friends. A Matter of Balance can help people improve their quality of life and remain independent.
A Matter of Balance is designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels among older adults. Participants learn to set realistic goals to increase activity, change their environment to reduce fall risk factors, and learn simple exercises to increase strength and balance.
Purdue Extension will be offering A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds, 400 Parke Ave. Crawfordsville, beginning Monday and continuing each Monday through Dec. 21 from 10 a.m. to noon. This eight-week program is offered for a small fee of $25/person and registration is required. Each class is limited to 12 participants. A workbook will be provided and refreshments will be served.
For more information and to register, contact Gail at the Vigo County Extension Office at 812-462-3371.