It is estimated that one in three people aged 65 and older fall at least once a year.

Many of these falls result in broken bones, hospitalizations, and in some cases, even death.  In addition to physical injury, victims of falls tend to lose their confidence and become less independent.  Falls among older adults is a very serious problem, especially in Wisconsin. Wisconsin ranks #2 for falls among older adults.  The good news is that falls CAN be prevented!

    The Stepping On Program is a community based, fun and interactive evidence-based falls prevention program aimed at educating participants and building confidence in order to reduce and/or eliminate falls.  The 7-week program focuses on how strength and balancing exercises, medication management, home safety, footwear, vision and mobility are important in preventing falls.  The program is facilitated by two health professionals or in some cases a health professional and peer leader.  Local guest experts are utilized to provide information on exercise, vision, safety and medications.  This program will benefit anyone who has had a fall in the past year, has a fear of falling, currently resides at home or other community based dwelling and is not suffering from dementia or other memory impairments.

    Some of the many benefits of the program include, learning to step outside the home with confidence, learning with people your own age, becoming aware of fall hazards and reducing your fall risk, helping others through sharing your successes and the opportunity to study this most up-to-date information on falls preventions.

    So let’s work together to decrease the number of falls experienced in Wisconsin!  If you are interested in learning more about the Stepping On program or getting registered please contact the Aging and Disability Resource Center at (920) 849-1451.

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