Kids & Family

Keeping Older Adults Safe From Falls

The Bayside YMCA offers a free talk on Wednesday evening, Sept. 19, in the Barrington library that kicks off a class, 'A Matter of Balance', during Fall Prevention Awareness Week.

Falls are a leading cause of deaths, unintentional injuries, and hospital admissions for trauma among older adults. Falls can take a serious toll on older adults’ quality of life and independence.

So, the Bayside YMCA  is presenting a free talk, "Keeping Mom and Dad Safe from Falls,” on Wednesday, Sept. 19, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. It will be held in the Barrington Public Library auditorium, according to Kim Stowell, communications manager at the YMCA.

The talk is being held during the first week of fall each year -- known as Fall Prevention Awareness Week. At the heart of this initiative is the message that falls are preventable, Stowell said.

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Events are planned across the nation to raise awareness among older adults and their families and caregivers, elder care professionals, and the general public about the seriousness of falls and ways to reduce fall risk.

Wednesday night's event also will be the kickoff for a new class offered at the YMCA titled "A Matter of Balance."

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"This evidence-based program is designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels in older adults," Stowell said. "It emphasizes strategies to reduce and manage falls."

"The class is designed to benefit adults aged 60 and older who are ambulatory and looking to improve flexibility, balance and strength," she said.

Space is limited to 12 participants. If you're interested in joining the class, call to the Bayside Welcome Center at 245-2444 or stop by the Y at 70 West Street, Barrington.


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