A Matter of Balance
A Matter of Balance (MOB) addresses the fear of falling that many older adults experience. People who develop this fear often limit their activities, which can result in physical weakness, making the risk of falling even greater. This program is designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels among older adults. The $25 dollar fee is waived for participants 60 years and older who complete required paperwork.
Check out our Fall Prevention Tips sheet
Falls Prevention Programs Just For You
Despite the fact that every 11 seconds an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall, falling is not a normal part of aging. There are changes we can make to actively work toward the goal of preventing or limiting the occurrence of falls.
We recently teamed up with the Virginia Arthritis and Falls Prevention Coalition (VAFPC) and the Virginia Department of Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) to bring you falls prevention workshops. Topics included using assistive technology, aging in place, tai chi, and many more. All workshops were recorded and are available here.
Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention
Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention has been recognized by many national organizations including the Arthritis Foundation and the Administration for Community Living as safe and effective. Slow, controlled movements build muscle strength, improve balance, gently free up stiff joints, and relieve stress. All movements are done in an upright standing position, or may be done seated by those unable to stand. The physical exertion level of Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention is similar to that of walking. Tai Chi leaders are certified instructors.
Participation is open to those 50 and older and adults of any age who have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, scleroderma, or spondylitis. Participants must be medically fit to perform the exercises, and must be able to participate without assistance.
Chronic Disease Self-Management Education
What if I told you that there is a way that you can feel better and not be so tired all the time? If you could take control of your health, bring back your vitality, and do the things you really want to do, would you? If you want to take charge of your health, feel better, and take back the control of your life then you'll want to learn more about the health and wellness opportunities VPAS has designed just for you.
These six week workshops are designed to empower adults to better manage their chronic conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, chronic pain and heart disease with the goal of giving individuals confidence and skills to allow them to actively manage their health care and reduce unnecessary visits to the Emergency Department or the physician(s).
Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) focuses on solutions to problems, caused by living with ongoing health conditions such as pain, fatigue, sleep, managing medications and difficult emotions.
Chronic Pain Self-Management Program (CPSMP) includes activities such as pacing and planning, better breathing, evaluating treatments, understanding pain, and physical activity.
Diabetes Self-Management Program (DSMP) includes diabetes specific information such as meal planning, foot care, delaying complications, dealing with stress and planning for sick days.
