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.

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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

 

 

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 solve

 

 

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 services call the 
Senior LinkAge Line at (800) 333-2433!