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ProgramsA Matter of Balance and Tai ChiThe Pinellas County Fall Prevention Coalition wants residents to know that A Matter of Balance, a national program to reduce falls, is available in both Pinellas and Pasco counties. It is federally recognized as an "evidence based" program meaning that its ability to reduce falls has been proven through research. It is designed to help people manage concerns about falls and increase physical activity. The Fall Prevention Coalitions of Pinellas and Pasco Counties are looking for individuals interested in learning to prevent falls among seniors by becoming certified as a coach for A Matter of Balance. There is no cost to become a coach. A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls is conducted in 8 two-hour sessions and uses group discussion, problem-solving strategies, videos and gentle physical exercise. Older adults learn positive coping methods to reduce fear of falling and remain active and independent.
A Matter of Balance coaches help participants become more confident about managing falls by believing that they can increase their strength, find ways to reduce falls, and protect themselves if they do fall. In addition, participants report that they have increased the amount they exercise on a regular basis. A Matter of Balance coaches need good communication and interpersonal skills, enthusiasm, dependability and a willingness to lead small groups of older adults. Coaches also need to be able to lead low to moderate level exercise. Coach training involves two four hour sessions by a Master Trainer. A coaches handbook is provided. Coaches are required to lead the classes in pairs. So bring a friend and get ready to provide strategies and exercises to reduce the fear and the risk of falling in older adults. The Health Promotion grant has added Tai Chi classes in both Pinellas and Pasco counties. Tai Chi is 24 sessions and is also an evidence-based program to improve balance. If you would like more information, please contact Pat Sovonick, A Matter of Balance Coordinator at 727-862-9291 ext 2018 or by email at psovonick@caresfl.org. Pat is a member of both the Pinellas and Pasco Fall Prevention Coalitions.
Fall Prevention Training 2008-2009In 2008 the Area Agency On Aging of Pasco-Pinellas, Inc (AAAPP) was awarded $27,801 through a Department of Health EMS Matching Grant. The grant was submitted by the AAAPP, but the application made it clear that the implementation of the grant was to be a joint effort by the AAAPP and the Pinellas County Fall Prevention Coalition, of which the AAAPP is a member. The goal of the grant proposal was to increase the number of fall prevention educators using a train-the-trainer model. The Coalition selected a consultant to serve as the trainer for the grant, and the AAAPP contracted with this consultant to provide both the train-the-trainer sessions and the training materials described in the grant. The consultant was Lori Whittle, MPH, a certified Balance & Mobility Specialist Instructor with the ?Fallproof!? Program at California State University, Fullerton. She is also certified as a Senior Personal Trainer. A press release announced the train-the-trainer opportunities for both Movement for Balance and Strength exercise classes and "Do You Know Where Your Feet Are?" education classes. Coalition members helped with publicity and recruited potential trainees. Classes were offered from September, 2008 until May, 2009. Training locations were arranged by members of the Coalition and staff at the AAAPP and were held at 12 different locations throughout Pinellas County, including Senior Centers, Assisted Living Facilities, a city recreation center, a private fitness company, the local Hospice, and a church. Materials from the grant are available in the community to continue the fall prevetion efforts. Fifteen sets of 3 Balance Basics DVDs were given to senior centers and organizations that work with seniors. Four sets were also provided to the Pinellas Library Cooperative so that they are available to the public. |
