JANESVILLE — One in every three adults over age 65 falls every year; however, falling is not normal for older adults, and older adults can learn how to take steps to prevent falls.
Stepping On, a workshop offered in Rock County, teaches older adults to do just that. Research shows that adults who take the workshop gain confidence, reduce falls by over 30 percent, and have fewer hospitalizations and emergency department visits.
The workshop is offered at Creekside Place, 102 Maple St., Evansville, starting on Wednesday, July 9, at 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. It is for adults age 60 and over, who live in their own homes or apartments, and do not rely on a walker, scooter, or wheelchair indoors most of the time.
Falls can be physically, financially, and emotionally devastating. Fear of falling often limits older adults and results in reduced mobility and isolation. “The good news is that people can learn how to prevent falls and can make the changes they need in their lives to reduce their risk,” said Anne Weirich, public health nurse, Rock County Health Department. “The Stepping On workshops equip older adults to take control of their lives and make the changes in their home and lifestyle to reduce their falls risk.”
Stepping On workshops are delivered in two-hour weekly sessions for seven weeks, ending on Wednesday, Aug. 20. During the seven-week sessions, participants receive support from trained leaders and other workshop participants, learning strength and balance exercises, medications’ impact on falls, vision, safe footwear, home modifications, and community safety.
“It is amazing to see the change that occurs after people go through the workshop,” said Weirich. “People are more confident, energetic, and have a new outlook on being independent and going places in their community, all of which helps them lead a healthier life.”
The workshop is not just for people who have fallen, but for people who fear falling. Through the different exercises and through the group sharing their own fall experiences, the group will leave with more strength, better balance, and a feeling of independence.
For more information or to pre-register, call 608-758-8455. Pre-registration is required. Register online at www.co.rock.wi.us/aging A $10 fee for the class is suggested. Transportation may be available to the classes.