The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports in 2013 falls caused more deaths in elderly Minnesotans than diabetes, kidney disease, influenza or pneumonia.

 

Many people still believe that falls are a normal part of aging and can’t be prevented. The reality is, there are many things to do to prevent falls – including improving balance.

 

Catholic Charities Health Promotions program offers a class called “Matter of Balance” that helps participants learn to view falls and their fear of falling as controllable. A new session will begin in Becker Oct. 4. Participants will set realistic goals to increase activity, change their environment to reduce fall risk factors and learn simple exercises to increase strength and balance.

 

The upcoming Matter of Balance workshop is being held at Grace Lutheran Church in Becker for 8 weeks starting each Tuesday, Oct. 4 from 9 to 11AM. This workshop is a “Healthy Living as You Age Initiative” through a special grant from the Central Minnesota Council on Aging.  Centracare Health – Becker is partnering with Catholic Charities to offer this workshop to all adults age 18 or over.

 

Registration is required by Sept. 27. Contact Mary Simpler at 320-229-4591 or 1-800-830-8254 to register or for more information.