The Heritage Agency On Aging recruiting 'A Matter of Balance' coaches

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 Heritage Agency on Aging and the Sure Steps Falls Prevention coalition, of the Johnson County Livable Communities Initiative, are looking for volunteers to help provide this program.

A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls, is conducted by two trained “coaches” 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 that they have increased the amount they exercise on a regular basis. 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.

The next coach training class is schedule for Monday, August 29, 2011, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Coralville Public Library. The only cost for this training is a commitment to coach at least one class per year.

If you would like to attend or want more information, please contact Tim Getty, A Matter of Balance coordinator at 319-398-5559.

For more information, contact Tim Getty, the Heritage Agency on Aging, by phone at 319-398-5559, by fax at 319-398-5533 or via email at tgetty@kirkwood.edu.

A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls This program is based on Fear of Falling: A Matter of Balance. Copyright© 1995 Trustees of Boston University. All rights reserved. Used and adapted by permission of Boston University.

A Matter of Balance Lay Leader Model Recognized for Innovation and Quality in Healthcare and Aging, 2006, American Society on Aging. A Matter of Balance Lay Leader Model was developed by a grant from the Administration on Aging (#90AM2780).