April 1, 2021
NORTON, Kan. – One in four older adults has a fall each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But the good news is that falls are not a normal part of aging and can be prevented.
The Stepping On program has been researched and proven to reduce falls by 31 percent, and the program is offered at Norton County Hospital. It will begin on Monday, April 19 in the hospital’s conference room from 9 to 11 a.m. It will continue with sessions offered each Monday through June 1 (June 1 will be a Tuesday class due to the May 31 Memorial Day holiday). Stepping On certified trainers include two of the hospital’s nurses – Julia Thompson, BSN, RN; and Judy Wenzl, BSN, RN.
In just seven weekly, 2-hour sessions, Stepping On gives participants strategies for avoiding falls including balance and strength exercises, home safety check suggestions, medication review and more. Guest experts such as an optometrist, physical therapist and pharmacist will visit over the course of the seven sessions to provide falls prevention information and strategies for avoiding a fall.
The workshop is designed specifically for people who age 60 or older, and have fallen or have a fear of falling. Participants can expect to leave with more strength, better balance, and a feeling of confidence and independence.
To register for Stepping On, which is a free program, please contact Thompson at 785-877-3351 or jthompson@ntcohosp.com. The course is limited to eight participants.
###