Decide to prevent falls

The Stepping On fall prevention program (created by Dr. Lindy Clemson of Australia) is an amazing program.  I just completed a three-day Leader training program at the Wisconsin Institute of Healthy Aging in Madison, Wisconsin and I am so excited about bringing this program to California.

The 7-week program for older adults is designed to reduce fall risk and increase confidence in situations where a person may be at risk of a fall.   This evidence-based program is about building self-confidence, making decisions, and changing behaviors to prevent falls.  It truly encourages the participant to take responsibility and make wise choices to prevent a fall. 

As a Stepping On workshop leader, I will take off my "balance and mobility specialist" hat, remove my Fall Prevention Lady title and become a facilitator of change the Stepping On way!!!

Because fall prevention is about collaboration within the community, guest experts are invited each week to discuss topics such as strength and balance, vision, community safety, and medication management.  Other topics that we will discuss are home hazards, safe footwear, how to get up after a fall, safety in public places, and any other concerns the group may have. 

Similar to my community-based balance and mobility classes, the size of the group is limited to 10-14 people.  The Stepping On program is designed for the same target population as FallProof™: 

• Adults over the age of 60
• Live independently in the community
• Have fallen or are at risk of falling
• Are cognitively intact (no dementia)
• Do not use an assistive device such as a cane or walker for mobility.  

In otherwords, the program is for those who live at home, who want to stay at home, remain independent and learn how to prevent a future fall.

I am working with the California Department of Public Health to present this program in the Sacramento area and I look forward to seeing how the program changes peoples lives.  I hope this turns into a full or part-time position that allows me to travel throughout the state teaching others how to teach the program. 


Although not endorsed specifically by the leaders, my book is a perfect supplement to this program.  Why?  Because I teach about situations that increase the risk of a fall and how to reduce that risk.  I demonstrate evidence-based balance and strengthening exercises in addition to flexibility and endurance activities and I facilitate practice at home with adherence charts and checklists.

Check out my book, The Complete Guide to Fall Prevention!  It's right on time! 

Stepping On,
The Fall Prevention Lady