Stepping On is a Free Class Offered in March
It's estimated that 1 in 3 people age 65 and older fall at least once a year. Many of these falls result in broken bones and other disabilities, hospitalizations, and in some cases, even death.
In addition to physical injury, victims of falls often lose their sense of confidence and become less independent. “Falls among the elderly is a serious problem, especially right here in Wisconsin as our state ranks No. 2 for falls among older adults,” said Kristine Wiegman, Prevention Coordinator at the Waupaca County Aging & Disability Resource Center. “The good news is that falls can be prevented.”
Stepping On is a free seven-week workshop using adult education to develop the knowledge and skills needed to help older adults prevent falls. In conjunction with the THRIVES (“Teaming for Health & Resiliency Improvement via Education and Support”), Stepping On will be offered starting March 18 at Riverside Medical Center (RMC). “The purpose is to help participants increase awareness of fall risks and be more informed about factors that contribute to falls,” said Wiegman.
The workshop focuses on how strength and balancing exercises, medication management, home safety, footwear, vision, and mobility all play an important in fall prevention. Guest experts during four of the seven weeks such as a physical therapist will demonstrate strength and balancing exercise and evaluate the proper use of canes and walkers. “This is an interactive workshop where participants are encouraged to share their experiences and ask questions,” said Wiegman.
Stepping On will be offered from 9-11 a.m. Tuesday’s March 18 through April 29 at the 902 Building, in the Maasch Room, Suite 202, at RMC. Pre-registration is required. Class size is limited to 16 participants. Call ThedaCare Central Scheduling: 920-738-6521 option 1, or visit www.thedacare.org and click on Classes.
For more information about the THRIVES Coalition or Stepping On, contact Kristine Wiegman at (715) 258-6277 or via e-mail Kristine.Wiegman@co.waupaca.wi.us.
ThedaCare™ is a community health system consisting of five hospitals: Appleton Medical Center, Theda Clark Medical Center, New London Family Medical Center, Shawano Medical Center, and Riverside Medical Center in Waupaca. ThedaCare also includes ThedaCare Physicians, ThedaCare Behavioral Health, and ThedaCare at Home. ThedaCare is the largest employer in Northeast Wisconsin with more than 6,175 employees. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!
