Physical Activity Break-A Matter of Balance

A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls is a nationally recognized evidence-based falls prevention program designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels among older adults. A Matter of Balance, developed by the Roybal Center at Boston University, is an 8-week structured group intervention for a small group of 8-12 participants led by a trained facilitator that uses videos, group discussions, and practical problem-solving activities proven to reduce falls and increase confidence to engage in physical activity. During the class, participants learn to view falls and fear of falling as controllable, set realistic goals to increase activity, change their environment to reduce fall risk factors, and exercise to increase strength and balance. A Matter of Balance is designed to benefit older adults who are concerned about falls, have sustained falls in the past, restrict activities because of concerns about falls, are interested in improving flexibility, balance, and strength, and are age 60 or older, community-dwelling, and able to problem solve. A Matter of Balance has been translated in over 8 languages and for low-vision participants. For more information, contact Maine Health Partnership for Healthy Aging at PFHA@mainehealth.org