Stepping On program helps older adults reduce fall risk

Always know where your feet are planted.

That’s one of the strategies we talk about in fall prevention courses offered through Ohio State University Extension. It involves being aware of your surroundings, scanning 2-3 feet ahead, clearing your home of hazards and avoiding shuffling.

Our family and consumer sciences program is starting a new year of fall prevention courses with Stepping On, scheduled Tuesdays, March 17 through April 28 at College Hills Retirement Village, 905 Portage Road, Wooster. The seven-week class will meet from 10 a.m. to noon in the village’s activity center. Joining me to facilitate the class will be Kate Shumaker, FCS educator for OSU Extension Holmes County.

Registration is free. Call the extension office in Wayne County at 330-264-8722 to register. Class size is limited.

Falls can happen at any age, but for those 65 and older, they come with much bigger risks including broken bones that may not heal quickly. Out of a fear of falling, older adults can become isolated and depressed, resulting in loss of mobility and, in turn, strength and balance. This puts them at greater risk of falling.

The goal of Stepping On is to help participants avoid dangerous and costly falls so they can stay independent. The program teaches falls may be common, but they don’t have to be a normal part of aging.

Stepping On is designed for people who are age 60 and older and have fallen or have a fear of falling. Studies show the class can help reduce falls by 31%.

Here’s what participants learn:

—How to spot and avoid fall hazards in their homes and community.

—How vision, medications and footwear affect balance.

—Easy exercises to build strength and improve balance.

—How they can safely get back up if they ever take a tumble.

A dedicated group of guest experts helps facilitate the sessions. They include an occupational therapist, a pharmacist, a vision specialist and a community safety expert.

In Stepping On we take fall prevention step by step so participants learn to build and maintain the physical strength and balance they need to walk confidently.

Additionally, participants have the chance to share their stories to learn from each other. We also invite those who have taken part in previous workshops to share how Stepping On has benefited them.

If you would like to take steps to prevent falls, I hope you will consider joining us for our next series. You can stay steady with Stepping On.

Laurie Sidle is an Ohio State University Extension family and consumer sciences and 4-H program assistant and may be reached at 330-264-8722 or sidle.31@osu.edu.