Helping to keep seniors in balance
Toolbox
Published: October 12, 2009
Chances are you know someone who has fallen or who is afraid of falling.
A Matter of Balance is a proven program designed to help people manage concerns about falls and increase physical activity. The Rutland Area Wellness Coalition is looking for volunteers to help provide this program.
A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls is conducted in eight two-hour sessions and uses group discussion, problem-solving strategies, videos and gentle physical exercise. Older adults learn positive coping methods to reduce fear of falling and remain active and independent.
A Matter of Balance coaches help participants become more confident about managing falls by believing that they can increase their strength, find ways to reduce falls and protect themselves if they do fall. In addition, participants report they have increased the amount they exercise on a regular basis.
A Matter of Balance coaches need good communication and interpersonal skills, enthusiasm, dependability and a willingness to lead small groups of older adults. Coaches also need to be able to lead low to moderate level exercise.
There will be a coach training session on from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday at the Castleton Community Center.
For more information and registration, call Laurie Knauer, A Matter of Balance coordinator, at 468-3093.
Barbara Hanson is director of community resource development for the Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging. For information about senior services, call the Senior Helpline at (800) 642-5119 or 786-5991 or visit www.svcoa.org.
Meals on Wheels
Today: Barbecue beef steak, mashed potatoes, peas and corn, wheat bread, butterscotch pudding.
Tuesday: Pot roast with gravy, boiled potatoes, butternut squash, wheat dinner roll, Macintosh apple.
Wednesday: Macaroni and cheese with bacon, green beans, wheat bread, fruited gelatin.
Thursday: Baked ham, mashed red potatoes with sour cream, spinach, corn bread muffin, vanilla pudding with fruit.
Friday: Turkey divan casserole, mashed potatoes, carrots, wheat bread, chocolate chip cake.
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