Building confidence and reducing falls
An effective program for older adults
Why should I be concerned about falling?
- More than one third of adults 60 or over fall each year.
- Among older adults falls are the leading cause of injury, hospital admissions for trauma and death.
- 35% of people who fall become less active.
Falls prevention
Many older people have had a fall experience that has shaken their confidence and may have resulted in injury. The threat of a fall can be a barrier to safely doing the things they want to do. The prevention of falls, and regaining their confidence, is vital to maintaining personal independence.
Who presents?
The program is led by a health professional and lay leader. Local guest experts also assist by providing information on exercise, vision, safety and medications.
What you will learn
The Stepping On workshop meets for two hours a week for seven weeks. Topics include:
- Simple and fun balance and strength training.
- The role vision plays in keeping your balance.
- How medication can contribute to falls.
- Ways to stay safe when out and about in your community.
- What to look for in safe footwear.
- How to check your home for safety.
Who can benefit
Any one who is:
- 60 years or over
- Has had a fall in the past year
- Fearful of falling
- Living at home
- Not suffering from dementia
Benefits
- Learn to step outside your home with confidence.
- Learn with people your own age.
- Become more aware of fall hazards and learn how your fall risk can be reduced.
- Study the most up-to-date information on falls prevention.
- Help others by sharing what has worked for you.
This program will meet virtually Wednesdays, April 14-June 2 from 9 to 11 a.m. online. June 9 is reserved as a makeup class in case there are technology issues.
Gundersen trauma and injury prevention coordinator, Megan Anderson, will meet virtually with each participant before the program starts to ensure understanding of the technology that will be used and other course expectations.
