Finding new ways to manage concerns about falls

Have you turned down a chance to go out with family or friends because you were concerned about falling?  

Have you cut down on a favorite activity because you might fall?  If so, A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls is a program for you.

Fear of falling can be just as dangerous as falling itself.  People who develop this fear often limit their activities, which can result in 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.  

A Matter of Balance is designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels among older adults. Participants learn to set realistic goals to increase activity, change their environment to reduce fall risk factors, and learn simple exercises to increase strength and balance.

Purdue Extension will be offering A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls at the Putnam County Public Library 103 E Poplar St, Greencastle, IN beginning Tuesday, September 2nd and continuing each Tuesday through October 21st from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. This 8-week program is offered free of charge thanks to the library, but registration is required.  Each class is limited to 12 participants. A workbook will be provided and refreshments will be served.

For more information and to register for A Matter of Balance, contact Olivia Morgan at the Clay County Extension Office at 812-448-9041.

Visit our homepage at www.extension.purdue.edu/putnam or you can contact the local Purdue Extension Office by calling 765.653.8411 for more information regarding this week’s column topic or to RSVP for upcoming events. It is always best to call first to assure items are ready when you arrive and to RSVP for programs. While many publications are free, some do have a fee.

Purdue University is an equal access/equal opportunity institution. All times listed are Eastern Time.
Upcoming Events:            
Aug. 1-17 – Indiana State Fair (closed Mondays) 
Aug. 23 – Forestry Field Day, 9 am – 12 pm, Nelson-Stoke-Lewman Woodland, register at smith535@purdue.edu or 765-653-8411  
Sept. 2 – My Record of Achievements due to Extension Office 
Sept. 2 – A Matter of Balance, 5-7 pm (every Tuesday for 8 weeks, Putnam Co. Library, register at 812-448-9041
Sept. 20 – Field-Ready Meals to Farm Families, 10 am – 1 pm, $20, Register at https://bit.ly/Field-Ready