A Matter of Balance FAQ

Who should attend?

The program is designed to benefit 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, community dwelling and able to problem solve.

Are falls common?

• Yes, every second of every day an older adult falls.
• One-half to two-thirds of falls occur around the home.
• Falls usually aren’t caused by just one issue. It’s a combination of factors.
• A large portion of falls are preventable.

What happens in class?

• Group discussion. Everything said in class is kept confidential.
• Problem-solving/practical solutions shared.
• Skill building.
• Assertiveness training.
• Light exercises and stretches are all performed with your own body weight. No external weights or bands are used in this class.
• Videos.
• Visit from a guest health care professional.

What do participants say about the program?

• They have increased confidence in taking a walk, climbing stairs and carrying loads without falling.
• More confident that they can increase strength, find ways to reduce falls and protect themselves if they do fall.
• Increase the amount they exercise regularly.
• Have fewer falls after taking the course.