Build your confidence with better balance to reduce fall risk

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – Although slips, trips and falls can happen at any age, it’s more common as we get older. Getting up from a fall also becomes more of a daunting task and at times, can seem nearly impossible.
Numerous age-related changes may be at fault. As we age, we lose muscle strength and flexibility (especially if we aren’t quite as active as we used to be). Our senses such as vision and hearing become less sharp, making it more difficult for us to navigate potential fall hazards. Chronic conditions also play a huge role. Often we are on multiple medications to treat our conditions. Certain medications (or being on multiple medications) can have a host of unwanted side effects such as dizziness, sleepiness or lightheadedness, ultimately putting us at an increased risk for a fall.
The good news? There are things we can do to lessen our risks for slips, trips and falls. Join the Better Your Balance: Stepping On program to learn more about why falls happen and what you can do to reduce your risk.
Work with a local Physical Therapist to identify strength and balance exercises specific to preventing falls. Learn how to get up from a fall and about when/how to use assistive devices safely.
Hear from a local vision expert on eye related conditions that can impact our fall risk.

Hear from a local pharmacist about what medications might put you at risk for a fall and what you can do about it.
Hear from the Fire Department, as it relates to community safety and what you can do to reduce your risk for in-home falls.
Join on Fridays, March 21-May 2 from 9:30AM-11:30AM at the South Wood County YMCA. This program is open to the community. Non-members are welcome and encouraged to attend. Pre-registration is required by calling the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Central Wisconsin at: 888-486-9545. There is no cost to attend.