Stepping On Program starting in September
Posted on Aug 5, 2016 7:53am PDT
Stepping On: Building Confidence and Reducing Falls
September 22 is fall prevention awareness day and Gunnison Valley Health
will be offering a fall prevention class to our community starting September 27.
Falling is very common; it can result in injury and can shake your confidence.
The threat of falling can be a barrier to safely doing all the things
you want to do at home and in the community. That’s why preventing
falls is critical to maintaining independence.
Did you know that more than one-third of people age 65 or older fall each
year and falls are the leading cause of injury and hospitalization for
trauma among older adults. 35% of people who fall become less active.
Don’t let a fall or a fear of falling keep you from your life.
Stepping On is a fun and interactive fall prevention program for older
adults who have fallen or who have a fear of falling. Stepping On helps
participants recognize and carry out behaviors to take control of their
fall risk.
The class is taught by Ginny Wolfe, physical therapist and Carla Fanciullo,
occupational therapist from Gunnison Valley Hospital as well as expert
guest speakers. It is offered in two-hour sessions once a week for seven
weeks, followed by a home visit or phone call to each participant after
the seven sessions. Topics include: balance and strength exercises, home
modifications, community safety, vision, medication review, safe footwear,
and sleep.
If you have questions about the class and whether or not it is right for
you, please call the Gunnison Valley Health Rehab Department at (970)
641-7248. Classes will be from 9-11 a.m. and will start September 27 at
the Gunnison Recreation Center.