IL Pathways to Health Classes

A Matter of Balance

A Matter of Balance is an award-winning program designed for older adults to manage falls and increase activity levels. Two trained coaches guide participants through learning and activities that emphasize strategies to reduce fear of falling and increase activity levels among older adults. Participants show improved balance, flexibility and strength while viewing falls as controllable.

About the class

Length and timeframe of a workshop:

  • In person workshops meet once OR twice a week for eight, 2-hour sessions
  • Virtual workshops meet for nine sessions; the first session is to provide instruction on how to utilize a virtual platform

Activities included in workshop sessions:

  • Group discussion and problem-solving
  • Skill building and assertiveness training
  • Sharing practical solutions
  • Learning to change negative thinking to positive thinking

Workshops include an exercise component, beginning during the third session, which takes about 30 minutes to complete. 

"This program provided me with detailed knowledge, resources and gave me confidence in my recovery from a recent serious fall. I continue to do the recommended exercises three times a week."
Louise

Benefits of the class

Participants gain confidence by learning to:

  • View falls and fear of falling as controllable
  • Set realistic goals for increasing activity
  • Make changes to reduce fall risks at home
  • Exercise to increase strength and balance

Who should take the class

Classes are for anyone:

  • Concerned about falls or has fallen in the past
  • Interested in improving balance, flexibility and strength
  • Who has restricted activities due to concerns related to falls

Spouses, significant others, family members and friends are welcome to join!

Find A Matter of Balance classes

Download an info sheet (pdf)


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