For the Tomahawk Leader

ONEIDA COUNTY – The Aging and Disability Research Center (ADRC) of Oneida County and UW-Extension of Oneida County are offering a program designed to reduce falls in older adults.

The “Stepping On” program will be held virtually via Zoom on Wednesdays from Sept. 7 to Oct. 26, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. each day.

The program has been researched and proven to reduce falls by 31%, a release from the Oneida County ADRC said.

“One in four older adults has a fall each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Wisconsin leads the nation in fall-related deaths for people age 60 and older,” the release stated. “The good news, according to Terri Kolb, UW-Extension, is that falls are not a normal part of aging and can be prevented.”

In seven weekly, two-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, including a physical therapist, pharmacist and others, will visit over the course of the seven sessions, providing fall prevention information and strategies for avoiding a fall.

“The workshop is designed specifically for people who age 60 or older and have fallen and have a fear of falling,” the release said. “Participants can expect to leave with more strength, better balance and a feeling of confidence and independence.”

To register for Stepping On, contact the Oneida County ADRC at 715-369-6170.

For more information on the program, contact Kolb at 715-365-2750 or [email protected]