K-State Research and Extension Launches New “A Matter of Balance” Program

K-State Research and Extension is offering a program to help reduce falls. (K-State Research and Extension)

Submitted by Kathy Goul, K-State Research and Extension

Registration is now open for A Matter of Balance, a new program being offered by K-State

Research and Extension in partnership with Miami County Medical Center. A Matter of Balance is an evidence-based program designed to help teach practical skills in fall prevention, including exercises to improve strength and balance.

“The statistics around falls are concerning,” states Kathy Goul, Family and Consumer Science

agent. “Not only do they have a potentially devastating impact on health, they also come with a hefty price tag. In older adults, one out of every five falls leads to a serious injury – with the

average cost per fall at more than $30,000 per person.”

A Matter of Balance is designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase the activity level of

older adults who have this concern. The eight-session program meets weekly, where trained

instructors cover how to set goals for increasing activity, make changes to reduce fall risks at

home and how to increase strength and balance, all with a larger goal of viewing falls as

controllable. Each class meets for two hours.

Weekly sessions begin Wednesday, Sept. 13, and continue through Wednesday,

Nov. 1 . Classes will be held each Wednesday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the K-State

Research and Extension, Marais des Cygnes District office located at 913 N. Pearl Street in Paola.

There is no fee for the class, however class size is limited.

The program is recommended by the National Council on Aging and the Centers for Disease

Control (CDC). Typical participants are aged 65 and older, but registration is not limited to a

specific age. Individuals with concerns about falling, regardless of age, are encouraged to

participate in the program. The classes will be led by K-State Research and Extension personne as well as staff from Miami County Medical Center. For more information or to register for the program, call 913-294-4306.