Silicon Valley Healthy Aging Partnership
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The Matter of Balance program emphasizes practical strategies to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels for older adults. Program participants learn to view falls and fear of falling as controllable. Coaches work with them to set realistic goals to increase activity and teach the class exercises to increase strength and balance. Older adults get practical advice on how they can change their environment to reduce fall risk factors.
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Class Structure:
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Matter of Balance classes are offered 1 time per week for 8 weeks. Each class lasts 2 hours.
Class Size:
8-14 people
Class Activities include:
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group discussion
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problem-solving
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skill building
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assertiveness training
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sharing practical solutions
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strength building exercises
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balance exercises
Early sessions focus on changing attitudes and self-efficacy before attempting changes in actual behavior. As class participants come to understand the wide range of activity available to them into their senior years, they prepare to learn practical movement exercises.
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The exercise component, which begins in the third session, takes about 30 minutes of the session to complete. Coaches lead participants in exercises that focus on building balance and strength.
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The program is structured to build confidence as well as physical fitness. Engaging with other members of the community helps seniors stay engaged in community and work together to overcome fears.
Matter of Balance is offered through certified agencies throughout Santa Clara County.
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To learn more about bringing a Matter of Balance class to your organization, please visit our
Matter of Balance training page.
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