Senior center offers a free program to help seniors manage their concerns about falls

“Help! I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!” Comedians and entertainers have poked fun at that statement many times, but the truth is the fear of falling is a major and legitimate concern to senior citizens and their families.

To address this, the North Mecklenburg Senior Center is hosting a free 16-hour class in May titled “A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls.” Director Joanne Ahern says that the award-winning, evidence-based program, developed at Boston University, is designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase the activity levels of older adults who have concerns about falls.

In this course, which consists of 16 hours of class held two times per week for four weeks, participants will learn ways to control their risk of and fear of falling. Falls are the leading cause of injury and death among people over 65 years old, and studies have shown that those who do survive are 2-3 times more likely to fall again.

Classes will be Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., May 18 to June 10, at the North Mecklenburg Senior Center, 18731 West Catawba Ave., Cornelius. The program is free and open to all in the community aged 60 and over.

Snacks and beverages will be provided. However advance registration is mandatory.

To register, contact the North Mecklenburg Senior Center as soon as possible at 704-892-4041.

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