Community partners unite to reduce falls in people over 60
Wisconsin’s rate of unintentional death from falls has increased over the past 10 years. The state ranks second among all states in the rate of deaths from falls.
Wisconsin’s rate of unintentional death from falls has increased over the past 10 years. The state ranks second among all states in the rate of deaths from falls.
Among persons 65 and older, 67.2 percent of unintentional injury deaths are fall-related, according to statistics from Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services.
Figuring out how to prevent falls or why someone is falling is a complex process.
The Aging and Disability Resource Center of St. Croix County is offering the “Stepping On” workshop.
Stepping On is a program based on the latest research in fall prevention. The class uses local experts to teach participants about the many aspects of fall prevention. Along with informative lectures, community physical therapist partners teach simple exercises. These exercises can reduce the risk of falling by improving participant’s strength and balance.
The class is held for two hours once a week for seven weeks and will be located at River Falls Area Hospital.
“We are fortunate to have supportive community partners who volunteer their expertise to make this program effective for the older adults in our community,” said Nancy Abrahamson, program coordinator.
Together the Aging and Disability Resource of St. Croix County and the community partners are informing participants that falls are not a natural consequence of aging, falls can be prevented if you know the risks and how to manage them.
Enrollment for Stepping On is limited to 15 and pre-registration is required. A $10 fee for participants includes all learning materials and is refundable upon completion of all sessions.
Upcoming classes will be held at Classroom B, River Falls Area Hospital, 1629 E. Division St., River Falls, starting Aug. 25 at 8 a.m. for two hours. The class completes on Wednesday, Oct. 6.
The Aging and Disability Resource Center of St. Croix County is a “one stop-shop” for information and services located at 1101 Carmichael Road, Hudson.
For more information, contact the St. Croix County Aging and Disability Resource Center at 715-381-4360 or use the toll free number at 800-372-2333 and ask for Abrahamson.
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