CLEARFIELD – Losing balance and falling is a widespread problem with serious physical and psychological consequences for older adults.
Falls are the leading cause of injury for older adults. Hip fractures are the most devastating injuries for this population.
One in four older adults who fracture a hip, die within six months of the injury. Of those who survive, more than 50 percent are discharged to a nursing home.
Balance can be improved, but it can be complicated to identify the cause or causes of falling because in many cases a combination of factors causes a fall. Developed by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging, Healthy Steps in Motion is a program implemented throughout the state and focuses on reducing falls and improving physical activity.
Healthy Steps began in 2005. It is a comprehensive fall prevention program. Participants in Healthy Steps enjoyed the program but wanted to learn more about exercise. Thus, HSIM was designed to provide more exercises and to include exercises for people age 50 and over with different fitness levels.
HSIM includes education and exercises. The group learns the right way to do an exercise, as they are guided through the exercise together lead by trained instructors. The group also learns an exercise routine: a 10 minute warm up, followed by balance and strength exercises (and or aerobics) followed by cool-down/stretching.
Registration will begin at the Clearfield Center for Active Living, 116 S. Second St., Clearfield on Jan. 14, at 10:15 a.m. Call the following Centers for Active Living: Clearfield CAL, 814-765-9319; Coalport CAL, 814-672-3574; Karthaus CAL, 814-263-7277; Kylertown CAL 814-345-6338; and Mahaffey CAL 814-277-4544 for information. Improve your balance, stamina, and flexibility in a safe, friendly environment.
Information on activities of the CCAAA and Centers for Active Living is available by calling the Agency at 814-765-2696 or 1-800-225-8571 or by visiting the CCAAA Web site at www.ccaaa.net. Programs and services of the agency are funded in part by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging, the Clearfield County Area Agency on Aging, Inc., Mature Resources Foundation and local and consumer contributions.
