Spectrum Generations Coastal Community Center, 521 Main Street in Damariscotta is now offering A Matter of Balance (MOB), a proven program designed to help people manage concerns about falls and increase physical activity.

Classes start 8:30 a.m., Monday, April 8, 2013 and occur for two hours, twice a week (Monday and Wednesday)  for the duration of eight weeks.

Have you turned down a chance to go out with family or friends because you were concerned about falling? Have you cut down on a favorite activity because you might fall? If so, “A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls” is the right program for you.

Fear of falling can be just as dangerous as falling itself. People who develop this fear often limit their activities, which can result in severe physical weakness, making the risk of falling even greater. Many older adults also experience increased isolation and depression when they limit their interactions with family and friends. A Matter of Balance can help people improve their quality of life and remain independent.

The Center’s spring MOB workshop in partnership with the Lincoln Home will meet for two hours Monday mornings for four weeks beginning on April 8 at 10 a.m. and ending on May 1 at noon. Seating is limited so advanced reservations are required. For more information and to register, call 207-563-1363.  

Additional information about the MOB program can also be found here. Seminar fee $10. Optional material’s fee $20. A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns about Falls program is conducted in 8 two-hour sessions and uses group discussion, problem-solving strategies, videos and gentle physical exercise. The program is led by coach- mentors who have graduated from a MOB coaches training conducted by the Central Maine Area Agency on Aging (Spectrum Generations) in partnership with MaineHealth. Older adults learn positive coping methods to reduce fear of falling and remain active and independent.

A Matter of Balance helps 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.