Many older adults experience a fear of falling. People who develop this fear often limit their activities, which can result in physical weakness, making the risk of falling even greater. A Matter of Balance is an award-winning program designed to reduce the fear of falling, increase confidence and improve activity levels among older adults.
A Matter of Balance is offered as an eight-week series with two-hour sessions held weekly, or a four-week series with two-hour sessions twice a week.
A Matter of Balance is most appropriate for people who:
- Are 60 or older
- Concerned about falls
- Interested in improving flexibility, balance, and strength
Participants learn how to:
- View falls as controllable
- Set goals for increasing activity
- Make changes to reduce their fall risk at home
- Exercise to increase strength and balance
Learn More
Would you like to learn more about MSU Extension's falls prevention programming? Visit our falls prevention page or MSU Extension's other falls prevention program, Tai Chi for Arthritis and Falls Prevention.
Want to find a falls prevention class near you? Visit your county's MSU Extension's page.
Do you know if your home is free of fall hazards? Check out the CDC's "Check for Safety" brochure to learn how you can help prevent falls in your own home.
News
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Relaxation, balance, and confidence: One participant’s MSU Extension tai chi experience
Published on November 26, 2019
Diane Hyer of Marquette County talks about the many benefits of Michigan State University Extension’s tai chi classes. -
Does the fear of falling restrict your daily activities?
Published on May 23, 2018
When the fear of falling fills your mind with negative thoughts and prevents you from participating fully take action to renew your confidence and strength. -
Tips for fall prevention
Published on October 19, 2017
Fall prevention is pivotal to reduce injuries and fatalities. -
A caregivers’ guide to fall prevention awareness
Published on October 16, 2017
A room by room home assessment is a critical first step to identify and eliminate potential falling hazards to help protect your elderly loved ones from injury or death.
