Fall Prevention is a Multi-Cultural, Universal Concern

English, Spanish, Russian, Chinese. I interact with each group while teaching my Fall Prevention classes for the City of Sacramento's Fifty Plus Wellness program. Unfortunately, I only speak English but I learned early on in my teachings that fitness is a universal language. My Russian ladies followed along eagerly, doing every movement I did, down to scratching my head!

As endurance levels have increased and balance has improved, so has the level of intensity.

What used to be fun has become challenging if not difficult. The language barrier is now just that: a barrier. It is important to cue my clients correctly as they attempt new exercises. The unfortunate problem is my Russian and Chinese seniors don't have a clue what I'm talking about as I blurt out safety precautions.

The beautiful thing is they keep coming back: twice a week, consistently now for 2 years. They must be getting some type of reward. They must notice the benefits. They are stronger. One lady indicated that she no longer needs her blood pressure medication. Another lady gestured of her doctor's praise over her weight loss.

Reluctantly, 2 Chinese men have joined my class. What prompted their attendance, I have no idea but once they start moving, the happier they've become. My classes are easy enough to follow along and enjoy yet challenging enough to bring them back. These men have been watching me teach the same class for over 2 years and have suddenly decided to join in! Praise the Lord.

That is the key to a successful Fall Prevention program: easy enough yet challenging. Seniors need to challenge their strength, flexibility, balance and endurance levels regularly in order to lower their risk of an accidental and life-changing fall. Every senior, no matter what culture, race, or nationality will benefit from following a consistent routine.

Practice makes perfect, including your balance skills.