A Matter of Balance

What is A Matter of Balance?
 
Many older adults experience a fear of falling. People who develop this
fear often limit their activities, which can result in physical weakness,
making the risk of falling even greater. A Matter of Balance: Managing
Concerns About Falls is a program designed to reduce the fear of
falling and increase activity levels among older adults.
 
A Matter of Balance includes eight two-hour sessions for a small
group led by a trained facilitator. This nationally recognized program
was developed at the Roybal Center at Boston University.
 
During the class, participants learn to:

 

• View falls as controllable

• Set goals for increasing activity

• Make changes to reduce fall risk at home

• Exercise to increase strength and balance

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Who Should Attend A Matter of Balance Class?
 
The program was designed to benefit community-dwelling older adults who:

 

• Are concerned about falls

• Have sustained falls in the past

• Restrict activities because of concerns about falling

• Are interested in improving flexibility, balance and strength

• Are age 60 or older, ambulatory and able to problem solved

 
What Participants Say About A Matter of Balance:
 
"A Matter of Balance was most helpful - it made me more aware of what can be done to ensure safety at home. The class provided a definite time each week to meet and discuss concerns with others. I wish we had even more exercise activities at each class. Great to share and learn!"
 
"I'm already noticing a difference in my physical being. I'm sure I'm a little more mobile than I had been and plan to continue these exercises. Hopefully, I'll be jumping over the moon - soon!"
 
"I'm picking up my feet more when I walk. I'm not trying to carry all my groceries at once into my home. I'm using a cane more when I walk on my lawn. I'm turning on more lights as I travel in my home."
 
"I feel better about being careful. My confidence has risen. And I am being more assertive and feel good about it, not intimidated."

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To find out more information about these Community Classes contact the Dancing Sky Development Team.