Have you stopped doing certain things you enjoy because you were concerned about falling? If so, you are not alone. Chances are you or someone you know has fallen or is afraid of falling and might even restrict their activities because of these concerns.
Many older adults share a common fear of falling that is so strong they actually limit their activities. Up to 50% of Americans over the age of 65 who live independently experience a fear of falling. When older adults limit their activity due to this fear, it can reduce their mobility and independence, affecting quality of life and actually increases the risk of future falls. It can also increase isolation and depression due the lack of interaction with family and friends. These who are most likely to be afraid of falling are likely to have already fallen once.
Purdue Extension will host a class for eight weeks beginning Thursday, March 7, to be held at the easily accessible Scott County Heritage Center and Museum (1050 S Main Street in Scottsburg) at 9 a.m. The classes will meet for two hours each Thursday for eight weeks. Some weeks have to be skipped, so the dates for the class are 3/7, 3/14, 3/21, 3/28, 4/4, 4/18, 5/2, and 5/9.
Persons interested in taking the free class can sign-up by calling the Purdue Extension office at 812-752-8450. First come, first serve until the class is filled.
A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls acknowledges the risk of falling but emphasizes practical coping strategies to reduce this concern and remain active and independent. The program consists of eight two-hour sessions led by trained facilitator.
During the class, participants learn to:
•View falls and fear of falling as controllable
•Set realistic goals for increasing activity
•Find ways to change the environment to reduce fall risk factors
•Learn simple exercises to increase strength and balance.
Falling is not a natural part of aging and can be avoided by assessing your risk factors and making changes to your environment.
You should attend A Matter of Balance if you:
•are concerned about falls
•have had a fall in the past
•restrict activities because of concerns about falling
•are interested in improving flexibility, balance and strength