Fear of falling is one of the biggest fears seniors have. This fear can keep them from being as active as they would like to be. Favorite activities might be curtailed, such as gardening, taking a walk, and going to unfamiliar places.

As fear of falling makes seniors less active, their muscle strength tends to wane, which actually increases the risk of falls.

Add to that the inevitable feelings of isolation and possible depression due to “being stuck in the house” and a senior’s quality of life spirals downward.

Eastern Area Agency on Aging can help. We offer Matter of Balance which is a fall prevention program.

Matter of Balance is an eight week (a two-hour session per week) program focusing on preventing falls.

Topics to be covered:

• Education on how to maintain a safe home environment. For example: look around and make sure walkways are clear and that there are no “throw rugs.”
• Instruction on simple exercise that will increase muscle strength
• Instruction on ways to increase balance

Matter of Balance classes are held throughout the Eastern Area Agency on Aging’s four county coverage area.  Call today for a schedule and location of classes.

Information on Matter of Balance can be obtained Monday through Friday between 8:00 am and 4:30 pm.
If you would like to contact us, there are several ways to do it. Please see below:

• Phone : Bangor area 941-2865 or 1-800-432-7812
• Email:   info@eaaa.org
• Fax:      941-2869
• TTY:     207-992-0150