Space available in free falls prevention course

Room is still available for a falls prevention course underway in Wooster.

A Matter of Balance runs Fridays through March 28 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Franklin Township Building, 132 W. Moreland Road. The class is offered at no cost to participants as part of the Falls Prevention Program of Holmes and Wayne, under the guidance of the Holmes County General Health District.

For those who have turned down a chance to go out with family or friends or cut down on favorite activities because they might fall, this program is for them.

Fear of falling can be just as dangerous as falling itself. People who develop this fear often limit their activities, which can result in severe physical weakness, making the risk of falling even greater. Many older adults also experience increased isolation and depression when they limit their interactions with family and friends. A Matter of Balance can help people improve their quality of life and remain independent.

The award-winning program emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls. Participants learn to view falls as controllable, set goals for increasing activity, make changes to reduce fall risks at home, and practice exercises to increase strength and balance.

The curriculum includes group discussions, mutual problem-solving and a few homework assignments.

For more information or to register, call or email Laurie Sidle at OSU Extension Wayne County at 330-264-8722 or sidle.31@osu.edu or Kate Shumaker at OSU Extension Holmes County at 330-674-3015 or shumaker.68@osu.edu.