Multi-sensory fall risk assessments using the FAB scale in south Sacramento

As a certified FallProof balance and mobility specialist, I am trained to use the Fullerton Advanced Balance (FAB) scale to assess adults over the age of 60 for fall risk.  The FAB is a 10-item test designed to assess the ability level of the different muscles and senses involved in balance and mobility.

September is National Fall Prevention Awareness month and for my kick-off to increasing awareness about falls within my community, I offered FREE balance and mobility assessments at Parkside Community Church in South Land Park in south Sacramento.  I had a great turn-out!

Six older adults read the advertisement in The Sacramento Bee and found me in the church located at the corner of 5700 S.Land Park Drive and 43rd Ave; caddy corner from Belle Cooledge Community Center.    We started shortly after 10am and I finished the last FAB at 11:45.  I briefly consulted with a concerned daughter about her parent's, aged 89 and 87. 

I told her they weren't too late to improve as one of the ladies whom I assessed today was 91 years old!  She did fantastic!  I loved talking with her and her daughter, both whom did well.  It was an absolute joy to talk with each and every person and I love doing these assessments.

I will be offering a FREE educational workshop, Fall Prevention 101, in two weeks!  On Monday, September 23, the free dynamic workshop will shed new light on the balance system and how aging affects the muscles and senses involved in staying upright!  We will meet at 10am in the main sanctuary at Parkside Community Church.  I will try to put out signs!!! 

See you at Parkside!!!
Visit my website for more information:  http://www.fallpreventionlady.com

I will be offering free balance assessments at Northminster Presbyterian Church on Sept. 25 (9a-noon) and Eskaton's Live Well at Home Open House (10:30am-1:30pm)

Balance Assessments during Fall Prevention Awareness Week

I was thinking about it and I really feel like doing balance assessments using the Fullerton Advanced Balance(FAB) scale!  I love this 10-item assessment tool because it measures a multitude of elements associated with balance  and fall risk.  It sheds light into the integrity of body systems involved in balance and can be a real eye opener for some.

I used the FAB at various senior and community centers as part of my research study during my graduate studies in 2010 and have had the opportunity to implement the short-form FAB at both the 2011 and 2012 Area 4 Agency on Aging (A4AA) and Kaiser Permanente sponsored Community Fall Prevention Awareness events in Sacramento.

Unfortunately, the A4AA and Kaiser are not hosting another fall prevention community awareness event so it's up to local providers who are passionate about reducing falls among older adults to do something on our own!  And that's exactly what I'm doing; coordinating with local churches to offer balance assessments for older adults.

Community Outreach Balance Assessments and Fall Prevention Workshops:

1.  Parkside Community Church (5700 S. Land Park Dr.  Sacramento, 95820)

• Balance Assessments:  Monday, September 9.  9:30-11:30am.  Registration required
• Fall Prevention 101 Workshop:  Monday, September 23.  10a-Noon.  

2.  Northminster Presbyterian Church (3235 Pope Ave, Sacramento, 95821)

• Balance Assessments:  Wednesday, September 25.  9am-Noon.
• Balance & Mobility Training Classes:  M/W, 9-10am, Oct. 7-Oct. 30

Get educated.  Get active.
We can't stop the season, but we can prevent the accident.

The Fall Prevention Lady

Evidence-based Tai Chi Moving for Better Balance program

Thanks to the California Department of Public Health and the San Mateo County Fall Prevention Task Force, I am now "certified" in the evidence-based Tai Chi Moving for Better Balance (TCMBB) program that has been demonstrated to prevent falls by as much as 55% when a person follows the program.  Woo-hoo!

I thoroughly enjoyed the two-day training with Master Instructor, Robert Nations, from San Diego.  He is a wonderful teacher who really knows the art of Tai Chi.  He patiently taught the group of 13 insstructors from San Mateo, Contra Costa, and Santa Clara county eight basic moves that are demonstrated to PREVENT FALLS by as much as 55% when done regularly.

Tai Chi is an art form that requires practice.  Lots of it.  Because the benefits are slow and progressive and basically directly related to the amount you practice, a lot of people give up because we're all expecting INSTANT results.  This isn't instant!  It takes practice!

I enjoyed the training and feel confident that with practice, I will be teaching the program to (willing) older adults in two or three months.   Hallejulah!

The Fall Prevention Lady

Preventing Falls One Step at a Time

Ironically, the first day of fall is nationally recognized as Fall Prevention Awareness Day.  The theme for this year's fall prevention awareness campaign is "Preventing Falls One Step at a Time".  In order to prevent a fall, it's important that you're wearing the right shoes!

The right shoe is one that has a good fit, good support, good sole and a good heel.  Think about it...if your shoes don't fit or if they are constantly slipping off your foot, the chances of losing your balance are much higher than if the shoe fits comfortably and securely.

As a Master Trainer in the evidence-based Stepping On fall prevention program, I teach an entire segment on proper footwear.  We do a "shoe audit" and encourage participants to take a good hard look at the shoes you're wearing.  Yes, those slip-on slippers might be your FAVORITE pair but if the shoe doesn't secure around your heel, there's a good chance you are compensating to keep it on.  Think of it like this:

IF IT SLIPS ON, IT COULD SLIP OFF.

Just remember, over 50% of all falls can be prevented with increased awareness and lifestyle changes.  Fall prevention researchers recommend you do two or more of the following:

1. Engage in consistent exercise program
2. Do a home safety check and make (or hire someone) modifications
3. Manage your medications

The more you know about things that contribute to falls and the more changes you make to prevent them, the more likely you are to remain safe and independent. 

Visit my new website, http://www.fallpreventionlady.com and order my book to learn about fall risk factors and mostly, what you can do to improve balance to prevent falls.  

The Complete Guide to Fall Prevention 

All you need to remain independent

One step at a time!
The Fall Prevention Lady

Grant-funded fall prevention program in Sacramento

The Sierra Health Foundation recently awarded the North Sacramento Grandparents Support Group (NSGSG) a grant for fall prevention education and balance training classes to keep grandparents who are raising grandchildren healthy and free from falls. 

I collaborated with the administrators of the NSGSG to develop the program and am proud to be implementing my educational Fall Prevention 101 workshops and evidence-based FallProof™ balance training sessions throughout the Sacramento area over the next year.  

This grant-funded program enables me to educate a segment of the population whom I would not otherwise be able to work with; grandparents raising grandkids!   I'm used to working with older adults who seek out fall prevention services and balance training classes to remain independent.  This group of older adults may be aware of the seriousness of a fall but they do not know that falls can be prevented or have the time and resources to attend this type of program.

So we're bringing it to them!  All classes and workshops have PlayCare available for infants and toddlers so the grandparent can take care of their needs without worry. 

The first balance training class started Tuesday, August 6th at Northminster Presbyterian Church and will meet for one-hour, twice a week for four weeks.  The class is full with 15 participants of all ages and abilities.  I love what I do and I can't wait to see lives transform.

Fall Prevention 101 workshop: 
Monday, August 19:  10am-11:30am
Northminster Presbyterian Church 3235 Pope Ave   95821

Next FallProof Balance Training Class:
Sept. 3- Sept. 27:  Tues/Fri, 11-noon
Lilliput Children's Services  2750 Sutterville Road (Cottage #3 at Sacramento Children's Home) 95820

So Blessed!
The Fall Prevention Lady

New Fall Prevention Lady website

I am the Fall Prevention Lady and I have a new website!  This is the third and final attempt for me and I hope you like it!  Please visit http://www.fallpreventionlady.com to view it and to schedule an appointment!

Based in Sacramento, CA, I offer balance and mobility training classes in the local community.  I present a dynamic, education Fall Prevention 101 workshop that will shed new light on the body systems involved in balance and what you can do to improve stability.  If necessary, I will come to your home for private balance training sessions.  Click here to view my services:  HERE

Because fall prevention starts with an increased awareness, I have several fall prevention resources designed to help you remain independent.  I have written a book, The Complete Guide to Fall Prevention, which is available in digital format (downloadable e-book) or hard-copy. 

I have produced a follow along DVD called Take 5 to Exercise.  You can purchase one DVD with five different seated exercise routines or you can buy individual exercise routines:

1.  Take 5 for Flexibility
2.  Take 5 for Strength, using a resistance band*
3.  Take 5 for Posture
4.  Take 5 for Strength 2, using dumbbells and a resistance band*
5.  Take 5 for Maintenance

***Resistance band included with purchase*** 

I am available for phone consultations and group presentations. 

Be proactive!  Address the factors that CAUSE a fall BEFORE the fall occurs.

In Fitness,
The Fall Prevention Lady

My goal: Maintain what I've got!

I am a balance and mobility specialist and I teach older adults how to not fall down.  I offer educational presentations and teach balance training classes in the community. One the first day of my small group classes, we talk about past experiences and what each person hopes to get out the class.  I also perform fitness assessments associated with fall risk.  When I work one-on-one with someone, I have them list three fitness goals they hope to accomplish with me.

Setting goals is a characteristic of successful people, especially when starting a fitness program.  It helps to set one or two big goals and several small steps along the way. This will help keep you motivated when times are tough and remind you of why you're doing these exercises!   

As we get age, the risk of being diagnosed with a chronic disease increases significantly.  In fact, the CDC estimates that one in two, or 50%, of people over the age live with at least one chronic illness (CDC, 2009).   This is alarming when you think of the number of people reaching the 65+ status and the cost of medical care and drug prescriptions needed for many chronic diseases.

Some diseases are progressively degenerative meaning the ability to function will get increasingly more difficult.   Aging is a progressively degenerative process if you don't exercise.   We can slow the aging process and MAINTAIN what we have by staying active.

I reassess my class members in the same fitness tests on the last day of class.  I have seen major improvements in at least one if not all three tests.  I remind everyone that improvement is fantastic but it's also great to maintain what you have, especially those living with a progressively degenerative disease. 

Let's maintain what you have!  Get active and stay focused on the goal!
In Fitness,
The Fall Prevention Lady

HUGE improvements marked in first FallProof™ class at Parkside

I am back in Sacramento and just completed my first four-week FallProof™ balance and mobility training session at Parkside Community Church in Sacramento, CA.   We had a small group but the results were huge!  As always, I measured three fitness components associated with increased fall risk both on the first and last day of class.  Every person in the group improved in at least one of the measurements, most improving scores in all three areas.

My youngest participant was a 70-year old woman and she showed significant increases in both lower body strength and lower body flexibility.  My oldest was an 85-year old man and despite admittedly NOT doing the homeplay exercises, he still improved lower body flexibility by 3 inches.  His wife, a lovely lady who is living with Parkinson's Disease, improved her dynamic balance and flexiblity speed by nearly 3 seconds.   Another 76-year old woman significantly improved all three balance, strength and flexibility scores.  She's bringing her husband to the next session. Woo-hoo!!!

A long-time participant is facing physical decline due to a recent diagnosis.  Despite her condition, she was able to maintain both balance and strength.  Sometimes an appropriate goal might be to just maintain what we have and that's a good thing!   I love being back "home" doing what I do; teaching older adults how to not fall down.

Next class at Parkside Community Church begins on July 15, 2013.  Classes will meet on Monday and Friday afternoons from 3-4 pm for four weeks.  The last class is on August 9th.  Cost for the eight sessions is $99 per person.

Invest in your independence!

The Fall Prevention Lady
Kelly Ward
info@thefallpreventionlady.com

"Sacramento Fall Prevention Network"

Due to lack of funding, the Northern California Fall Prevention Coalition dissolved last year.  The mission of a fall prevention coalition is to increase awareness of falls, fall risk factors and provide resources that can reduce that risk.  The ultimate goal is to keep older adults safe at home and free from injury associated with falls.

As a coalition member, I was active in the planning, implementation and evaluation of the first, second and third community-based fall prevention events in Sacramento.  Like all coalition members, I volunteered my time and efforts.  Personally, I think our events improved each year and I was disappointed to hear the Area 4 Agency on Aging and Kaiser of South Sacramento wouldn't be sponsoring this year's event.

No sponsors, no event.  No coalition, no planning.  Seniors are still falling.

Enter the "Sacramento Fall Prevention Network"! 

• The SFPN is a network of older adult service provider agencies sharing resources and information on senior fall prevention in the greater Sacramento area. We are service providers, not vendors.  We do not sell products but share resources.  

•  This is not a collaborative or coalition, just a way to connect people who are working on senior fall prevention in Sacramento. 

•  The purpose of this network is to increase awareness of existing resources, share ideas with other service providers, and connect providers working on similar projects.

Please contact me if you are interested in joining the Sacramento Fall Prevention Network.
info@thefallpreventionlady.com

"Evidence-based fall prevention programs" required for funding

Federal, state, and local governments realize the extreme financial cost as more older adults fall down; an estimated 1 in 3 people over 65 falls each year (CDC, 2006).  Medicare recognizes the painfully high financial burden when the same older adult falls repeatedly; half of those who fall once will fall again (CDC, 2006).  What's happening is older adults are falling down, going to the ER and those not seriously injured are being released to the same environment in which they fell.

No education.  No intervention.  Nothing changes.   As a result, the older adult falls again and repeats the cycle; falls down, fire department called, ER visit, released home.  Medical bills rack up until something happens; the older adult either moves in with family members or an assisted living environment or moves onto be with the Lord. 

What is so painful is that fall prevention research demonstrates that over 50 percent of falls can be prevented through a multi-factorial approach.  HUH?  Educate. Demonstrate. Facilitate.

• Teach what is causing the fall or loss of balance.  Education increases awareness. 
• Demonstrate how to reduce the risk when possible.  Exercise is the number one way to prevent a fall.  Therefore, demonstrate the different types of exercise that improve balance.
• Facilitate behavior change by linking the older adult to appropriate resources; resources that teach how to reduce fall risk, demonstrate how to remain active and facilitate compliance by linking with resources. 

Federal and state governments will only fund evidence-based programs; programs that demonstrate significant fall risk reduction and/or improved balance confidence.   Medicare will no longer reimburse medical expenses related to prior admissions. 

Some evidence-based programs that are currently being promoted in California:

• Stepping On
• Tai Chi Moving for Better Balance
• Walking with Ease
• Chronic Disease Management
• Live Strong and Safe (with my Take 5 to Exercise component!)

Training for trainers is available through Public Health department and private training.  Get involved.  Get funding.  Get evidence-based programming! 

Fall Prevention Lady joins forces with "San Mateo County Fall Prevention Task Force"

For the most part, I have been working as an independent contractor since my graduate studies at California State University, Sacramento began in 2002 where I focused on gerontology, therapeutic recreation and recreation therapy; specifically fall prevention and balance training for older adults.  

As the Fall Prevention Lady, I have worked for public, private and non-profit agencies in both Sacramento and Los Angeles regions and continue to expand my horizons.   I am now a "Master Trainer" and "Master Leader" in the evidence-based Stepping On fall prevention program, a published author of the "Complete Guide to Fall Prevention" and producer of the seated stretching and strengthening fall prevention DVD series, "Take 5 to Exercise". 

As much as I've enjoyed working independently, I am proud to announce my new position with the "San Mateo County Fall Prevention Task Force".  My duties as the health educator and fall prevention program coordinator include community outreach, program development, fall prevention education, grant writing and other necessary odds and ends associated with community-based programs designed to increase awareness of falls and how to reduce that risk in order to remain independent.    

The Task Force is not a service provider but functions to decrease falls among community dwelling older adults through advocacy, resource development and education.   This position will enable me to apply the skills I learned throughout my graduate studies while improving the quality of life for older adults.

Looking forward to doing big things within the San Mateo (and Sacramento) communitites.  Afterall, it takes a village to raise to child but it takes a community to prevent a fall.  

Yay team!  

Fall prevention consultant? Really?

As a certified "FallProof™ Balance and Mobility Specialist" with a Master's degree in Therapeutic Aging, I consult with older adults and their family members, program coordinators, community specialists, support groups, recreation therapists, fitness trainers, and anyone else who is concerned about falls among our aging population and how to reduce the risk of an accidental slip or trip.

Although I am not the only one doing this type of work, I am a pioneer in my field.  I have been studying aging, balance, falls, and the prevention of falls for nearly ten years.  I love what I do and through education, demonstration and facilitation, I fulfill my mission which is to improve quality of life for older adults by improving balance and reducing fall risk.   Thus, I am weary of "fall prevention" scams and businesses who use all the right lingo but offer questionable services and/or products;  I instantly want to know more about the program and what they're selling.

While living in Los Angeles, I was contacted by a man who wanted me to join his "fall prevention consultant" business.  Of course I was excited about the possibility of joining a team of like-minded individuals with the same passion as me so I wanted to know more about his qualifications, his business, and his mission.

After meeting with him and his "partner", I quickly discovered he's not a "fall prevention consultant"; he's a salesman.   He is not a gerontologist; he's a salesman.  He is not a fitness specialist; he's a salesman.   He does not develop and deliver programs that help older adults remain independent.   He's a business major, that's right, he's a salesman.

He is selling a "posture analysis" machine to assisted living facilities.  Even though I am highly trained to test the exact dimensions and provide more feedback than a machine can offer, this guy thinks the machine is more accurate and the print out is worth more than a professional assessment. I don't agree but ok, let's say the assisted living facility buys the idea that there is value in the printout and pretty graphics the machine spits out.  Now what?

I asked him what type of balance training program he offers the residents.  What type of educational program are you using to increase awareness of fall risk factors?  What type of home modifications are you suggesting?  What about medication management?

This is where his true salesman colors started to shine.  He has no balance training classes to offer.  He doesn't know the different types of exercise a person should be doing to improve his/her balance.   He is trying to put together a "program" to sell to activity directors; a once a week educational program.

Fall prevention research demonstrates that a multi-dimensional approach is the most effective way to reduce the risk of a fall.  In other words, educate, demonstrate and facilitate how to make changes that will improve balance and reduce fall risk.  An analysis of how a person is standing and how the muscle fibers are firing that morning may indicate risk of a fall but will not prevent a fall; it takes education and behavior change to remain independent.

My book, "The Complete Guide to Fall Prevention" does just that; it explains factors that increase the risk of a fall, demonstrates the different types of exercise that researchers recommend to improve balance and facilitates behavior change through compliance charts.  I even offer my "Help, I've Fallen and I CAN get up" demonstration!

Buyer beware!  Apparently "fall prevention consultant" is the new lingo that salesmen are going to use to target the baby boomers.  Beware.

Measuring progress while living with Parkinson's Disease

I'm "The Fall Prevention Lady" and I've been a certified personal fitness trainer for nearly ten years and a competitive athlete my entire life.  As a result, I know the importance of continuous program evaluation in order to progress and meet fitness goals.  Program evaluation is even more important when working with a person who has Parkinson's Disease. 

I have worked with all stages of this progressively degenerative neurological disorder and I have to say that this disease moves at an unpredictable pace, greatly due to effective medication management.  As a result, some people demonstrate more symptoms than others.  The classic symptoms are the Parkinson tremor characterized by rigid and stiff movements, imbalance due to shuffling stride,  soft voice, poor posture. 

Regardless of prognosis, some days are better than others.

This is the case for everyone when it comes to exercise but it is particularly true of those living with a progressively degenerative disorder.  This is why it is important to have as much baseline data as possible so when a person is having a bad day, you can look back on numbers and visualize the progress even though it doesn't feel like much has been made.

I was working with a dear client the other day when she became visually upset.  She wimpered, "I need to hear some encouraging words.  I don't feel like I'm improving.  I'm doing all these exercises and I still can't do this.  I still feel imbalanced, I'm not improving."  What is wrong with me?

I silently held her hand before gently reminding her that she is living with a progressively degenerative disorder.  She cried, "Well that doesn't make me feel any better".  I said, "Wait a minute, hold it.  Maybe it's time we changed our perspective"......

I asked her if she had gotten worse in the past four months.  She said no.
I asked her if she can get out of the chair easier than she used to.  She said yes.
I asked how many chair stands she was doing each day.  She smiled and said, "I try to do 10 chair stands each day".
I reminded her about our first visit and how she could barely get out of the chair once.

I said, "So you're not improving, huh"?  She paused in thought.  I suggested she change her perspective from what she CAN'T do to what she can do.  How you look at a situation can influence your mood, your confidence, your outlook.  I also reminded her that she wasn't getting any worse.  

"But I don't feel stable walking through the house and I have to use this stupid cane". 
I reminded her that she may not ever feel as confident as she used to while walking but she's making smarter decisions now.  I reminded her about her limits of stability and that once we practiced within those limits, she quit putting herself in unsafe situations.  The result?  No more falls resulting from reaching beyond her sense of stability.

When she changed her perspective and looked at the things she CAN do, she agreed that she was moving better and and felt stronger.   My dear client may not be improving how she had hoped (perhaps returning to pre-Parkinson's ability levels?) but I had to remind her that she wasn't getting any worse and that she is successfully maintaining her independence.  This is why it's important to revisit original fitness goals and modify as necessary.  Keep the goals realistic and attainable so a person feels competent and able. 

She smiled at me through her tears.  I am so proud of this dear woman.  She is so hard on herself that she doesn't celebrate her successes.  Well, that's my job.  I celebrate her.  I adore her.  She is a true survivor and a mentor not only for those living with Parkinson's but also for anyone who takes life for granted. 







Coincidentally, I will be speaking at the Parkinson's Association of Northern California's (PANC) support group this Friday, April 26, 2013 at the Carlton Plaza in Sacramento, CA. 

First United Methodist of Torrance & fall prevention

Last night I went to the church council meeting of the First United Methodist Church of Torrance to propose my Fall Prevention 101 workshop and the subsequent four-week FallProof™ balance and mobility training classes that I offer.  

This is an active church with a lot of community outreach projects.  The council recognized the severity and seriousness of falls among the aging population and seemed quite interested in offering a workshop and balance training classes.

I assured them that as the Fall Prevention Lady, I am a legitimate, sincere, and well qualified to teach these life changing classes.  I mentioned that I am a published author and showed them my book, "The Complete Guide to Fall Prevention".  My book combines years of hands on experience, fall prevention research and evidence-based training in an easy to understand manner that is both educational and entertaining.

However, a live person is always so much more interesting than reading a book so here I am, Southern California, for your viewing pleasure!

Now I wait.  Now I pray.  You blessed me with this gift, now use me Lord!
Amen.

The Fall Prevention Lady
aka, Kelly Ward
(916) 821-5715

Spring Is in Bloom Senior Expo in Malibu

Home Instead Senior Care and Good Company Senior Care will be partnering together with Our Lady of Malibu Catholic Church to host the "Spring is in Bloom" Senior Expo.  Our Lady of Malibu has been more than generous in providing a beautiful patio and parish hall in which to meet with older adults and their families.

The purpose in providing these events is to help educate and prepare the older adult population and their families for when they or their parents face health issues that may prevent them from living independently in their own homes or managing their own resources.

Falls are a major health concern for seniors and their families.  Falls are the leading cause of visits to the emergency room and the leading cause of death and non-fatal injuries for older adults.   For those who are lucky to return home, the fear of falling again can severely impact the quality of life. 


I will be representing USC's Fall Prevention Center of Excellence at this event.  In addition to handing out educational resources, I will be conducting balance and fitness assessments that demonstrate physical fitness to fall risk.    These are fun tests and can be a real eye opener!

Even though fall prevention research strongly supports engaging in a consistent exercise program as the number one way to prevent an accidental fall, many older adults and family members are not aware of the types of exercise a person must do to improve balance and remain independent.   I explain and demonstrate the different types of exercise in my book, The Complete Guide to Fall Prevention, and will have copies of my book at the event.

Malibu on a beautiful Sunday morning in the Spring.  Can't beat that.  See you there!

The Fall Prevention Lady

USC Caregivers Are Learning More (C.A.L.M.) Telephone Series

I am a member of the Southern California Fall Prevention Coalition.  To me, this is where it all began; Dr. Debra Rose, Dr. John Pynoos, The Center for Successful Aging, The Fall Prevention Center of Excellence, USC Andrus Gerontology program, and other senior service agencies that are active in the prevention of falls among the aging population in the greater Los Angeles region.

Yesterday I received the email I had been waiting for; three opportunities to contribute to community fall prevention events!  I immediately responded and will be hosting the Fall Prevention Coalition booth at the Senior Awareness Fair at Our Lady of Malibu Church in Malibu on April 7th and El Segundo's 2nd Annual Community Wellness Day Fair on June 1st.    Yay, out and about spreading the word in SoCAL!!!! 

On Friday March 15, I will be the featured speaker for USC's Caregivers Are Learning More (C.A.L.M.) Telephone Series.   From noon-1pm, I will be talking to busy caregivers (some of them adult children) about common fall risk factors and how to reduce those risks.  I will talk about basic exercises that fall prevention researchers recommend to improve balance and how to modify and advance these exercises to meet individual needs.

The need to educate busy caregivers about how to care for a person after a fall became strikingly evident after my grandmother fell last month.  Suddenly my uncles and mother were faced with the reality of caring for a parent after a fall; the strong parent now exuding feelings of vulnerability and mortality and buried dynamics of guilt, anger and fear.  

This ticking time bomb must be dealt with and the best time is before the explosion.  However life doesn't happen like that.  In America, we wait for an accident to happen and then we scramble to pick up the pieces.  I am so excited about sharing my knowledge about falls and how to reduce the risk of an accident with the family caregiver network at USC.  I highly recommend my book, The Complete Guide to Fall Prevention, as a supplement to my presentation and a guide for all family members to read BEFORE, or after, an accident. 

Fall Prevention researchers recommend increased awareness of fall risk factors and engagement in a consistent exercise program that includes four different types of exercise, including increased postural awareness.

Order my book today and arm yourself and your family, with the tools to avoid the aftermath of a fall.  Rest assured knowing you are doing what evidence supports to keep your loved one safe.

Spreading the word.
The Fall Prevention Lady

Follow my page on Facebook:  The Fall Prevention Lady

Most adult children don't know how to care for parent after a fall

People often ask me why I choose to specialize in the prevention of falls among the elderly or why I am fascinated with the effects of aging on the balance system.   Am I a physical therapist?  Am I a personal fitness trainer?  A nurse?  Did a family member fall?    The answers are no, yes, no, yes (respectively) but the reason I am passionate about fall prevention is because that is my gift, my calling, from God.

Two weeks ago, my 90 year-old grandmother fell and broke her collar bone.   She doesn't remember what caused her fall and was released with her left arm in a sling.  My uncle Jerry, a retired District Attorney with a private practice, lives nearby and is watching her at her home.   Like most professionals with a family, he is not sure how to care for someone after a fall.  Like most adult children, he is unaware of factors that can increase the risk of a fall.

Two days after my grandmother returned home, she fell again.   Luckily, Jerry was there but the fact that she fell on "his watch" was upsetting to both him and to my grandmother.  She felt unsafe and he felt guilty, if not incompetent, to care for his own mother.  When my mom went to visit, she immediately scheduled a family phone consultation with her daughther, The Fall Prevention Lady.

Over the speaker, I talked about what I know best; things that increase the risk of a fall such as things you can change an the things you need to be aware of, what I recommend talking to your doctor about, how to reduce these risk factors and the types of exercises that can improve balance and stability. 

My uncle furiously took notes and subsequently made necessary phone calls and doctor appointments.  After a review of medications, we discovered that my grandmother was taking four prescriptions that significantly depressed her central nervous system.   Like many older adults, my grandmom likes her night cap however the combination of four CNS depressants and alcohol intensified confusion, drowsiness, dizziness, and thus, the risk of a fall.

Modifications have been made to both her medication management and home environment so now my grandmother can concentrate on her recovery and my uncle can feel confident that he is doing everything he can do to keep his mother safe.  My uncle is a brilliant man who is respected in his field but he had no idea how to keep his mother safe after a fall.  He is not alone; adult children cannot be expected to know how to care for a parent who fell unless they have an idea of things that cause falls and how to reduce that risk.

I had sent copies of my book, The Complete Guide to Fall Prevention, but most people are too busy to read about prevention until it's too late.   Don't delay!  Read my book and use the information when necessary.  Or if you prefer a live conversation with an expert to help deal with the after effects of a fall, I am available for family consultations (for a fee).  I am here to help.

Kelly Ward,
The Fall Prevention Lady
(916) 821-5715

Find my page on Facebook:  The Fall Prevention Lady

Grandparents raising Grandkids want fall prevention training

I was surprised when I got a phone call from the daughter of one of my former balance and mobility class participants last week.  I assumed she was calling about her father but it turned out she was applying for grant funding for the "Grandparents Raising Grandkids" program and wanted to include my fall prevention 101 workshops and balance training classes as part of the curricula. 

Falls are an honest to goodness threat to the independence and vitality of many older adults.  I have worked with hundreds of older adults and many come to class with the goal of improving balance and strength so they can keep up with their grandchildren.  Thus, it was no surprise when Julie told me she wanted to offer fall prevention services as part of the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren program she is affiliated with.

After a lot of discussion and explanation, she and I put together a fabulous program to be offered to local seniors, a mutually beneficial price structure, and ongoing sustainability components that will help the program meet the needs of this growing demographic.   Falls are a quickly becoming a public health epidemic and it will take collaborative community efforts to help prevent these unnecessary accidents.

Luckily, I wrote a 'mock' grant in my graduate grant writing class so I am familiar with the entire process; including the background work, key wording and performance outcomes that funders require in the application.   After a long night, Julie got the application for the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren program in by the deadline.

Now we wait with baited breath.  And fingers crossed.   Praying for God's will......

Stepping On fall prevention program @ Jewish Family & Children's Service in Long Beach

I will be facilitating my second Stepping On fall prevention program at the Jewish Family & Children's Service center in Long Beach, CA.  Non-profit home modification company, Hearts of Ida is sponsoring my leadership in this seven-week program and it begins Thursday March 7th.

Stepping On is an evidence-based fall prevention program developed by Dr. Lindy Clemson of Australia but was adapted by the Wisconsin Institute of Health Aging (WIHA).  The
California Department of Public Health sponsored my Master Leader training in Wisconsin last summer and luckily, Hearts of Ida appreciated the value in this program and sponsored my two programs in southern California.

I am being trained to be a "Master Trainer" in the Stepping On program on Monday.  Upon successful completion of the training and competencies, I will be certified to teach other trainers to facilitate the amazing seven-week program that collaborates with local experts including a physical therapist, pharmacist, low vision and community safety expert.

This is a great program and I am honored to be integral in bringing this fall prevention decision making and confidence building program to California. 

1st Stepping On fall prevention program in Long Beach

This past summer (2012), the California Department of Public Health sent me to Madison, WI for training as a Master Trainer in the evidence-based Stepping On fall prevention program.  I enjoyed three days in warm and sunny Madison learning how to be a facilitator, not a "balance specialist".

As a certified FallProof balance and moblility specialist,  I was a bit skeptical of the Stepping On program at first because I firmly believe in Dr. Rose's program.  However, we all know there is more than one way to improve balance and I have to say that after leading a group of nine older adults through the seven-week Stepping On program,  I am a stout supporter of the benefits of this colloborative program.

As a Stepping On Master Leader, I am a facilitator.  I do not answer questions directly but I encourage the decision making and problem solving abilities of the participants.  It was wonderful to hear the group "think" through situations and identify causes of falls, how to prevent future falls, barriers to behavior change and how to maintain safe behavior.

In today's last session, members reported increased balance confidence and an increased awareness of things that cause falls.  The group at Bixby Knolls Towers in Long Beach was extremely educated about falls well informed about obvious dangers.  However everyone said they learned something valuable, especially how to do exercises that improve balance and how to advance those exercises when ready.

True, this is not a "balance and mobility" program but it does implement basic strengthening and balance exercises that do improve balance.  The best thing is the facilitation of a daily routine via an exercise log.  I have incorporated the exercise log into my balance classes and in-home training services.  Love it.

I"m Stepping On in Long Beach!
And LOVING IT!

Fall Prevention Program Train-the-Trainer program offered in Northern California

The El Dorado Hills Aging Commission (Commission on Aging, COA) recognizes the value of fall prevention education and the importance of training volunteers in evidence-based programs in order to reduce the incidence of falls among older adults.   Like most government agencies, EDH COA was leary of working with an independent contractor rather than another government (or non-profit) agency but I am proud to say they have decided to offer me the chance to provide my fall prevention train-the-trainer program! 

My first train-the-trainer program was approved by the Department of Social Services for 3.5 hours of CEU credits in 2007.  I updated the program in 2011 after months of fall prevention and balance training research for my masters degree thesis (The Efficacy of FallProof™ at Home DVD series on Physical Parameters Associated with Fall Risk).  The new program includes physical therapy-based balance training techniques used in the FallProof balance and mobility program.

I updated my train-the-trainer program again in 2012 after writing my first book, The Complete Guide to Fall Prevention.  My book is the compilation of years of hands-on experience as a certified FallProof™ balance and mobility specialist and certified personal fitness trainer specializing in balance impairments among the older adult population.

After becoming a Master Trainer in the evidence-based Stepping On fall prevention program last year, I decided to update my program again (I also updated my book)!   My specialized training and hands-on experience offers insight that will help trainers beyond words on a page because participants will demonstrate practical application of balance skills that prevent falls.

I am confident that my train-the-trainer program is the best fall risk reduction and balance enhancement program out there because I took the best features of the best fall prevention programs and put them in easy to understand language.

Thank you El Dorado Aging Commission for this amazing opportunity to train your trainers in the most current and effective fall prevention and balance training available.

Yay, Roberta!

Another Fall Prevention Workshop at Japanese United Methodist

I recently visited Sacramento on a 4-day, four fall prevention workshop extravaganza.  I was excited to visit my old stomping grounds and see some familiar faces.  My first workshop was a return visit to the active Japanese United Methodist Church in South Sacramento.  Health ministry leader Amy Kawahara invited me and made all the arrangements.  After Sunday services,  a group of twenty older adults eagerly waited for me in the gym.

I presented my dynamic 90-minute workshop and had the group doing the different types of exercise recommended to prevent a fall.   First I prepared the group by leading them through a seated warm up.  Afterward, I led them through progressive balance challenges.  This is always a group favorite activity and it allows me to individualize the challenges to each person's abilities.

Once the central nervous system is alive and ready, I encouraged everyone to increase their strength with my Basic 5 Lower Body Strengthening exercises.  And since you have to stretch what you strengthen, I ended the exercise routine with my Basic 5 Stretches.  And because all falls are accidents, I demonstrate how to get up from a fall.  I call this my "HELP, I've fallen and I CAN get up" demonstration.

The Basic 5 stretches are featured on my seated fall prevention exercise DVD series, Take 5 to Exercise.    All the other exercises, including the stretches, are featured in my book, The Complete Guide to Fall Prevention.  Order you copy today.  You can download it directly to your computer or you can order the hardcopy and I will ship it to you. 

Please contact me if you do not feel comfortable doing financial transactions online. 
My number is (916) 821-5715.

Remain independent.  Get moving.  Stay moving. 
Challenge your balance.

The Fall Prevention Lady

Parkinson's Association of Northern California presentation

I, The Fall Prevention Lady,  have been invited to give my Fall Prevention 101 presentation at the Parkinson's Association of Northern California (PANC)'s April meeting.  This is so exciting for me because I have worked with tens of people living with Parkinson's Disease and I have seen them make amazing improvements in their balance, strength and flexibility skills.  There is hope! 

Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a chronic, progressive, neurological disease that destroys the cells in the mid brain which produce "dopamine", one of the chemicals that transmits movement control signals.  The primary symptoms of PD are:

• Resting tremor
• Slowness of movement
• Stiffness
• Gait or balance problems 

This will be a dynamic presentation that is both educational and interactive and I am thrilled to be able to educate this group about how to remain independent and prevent falls.  Being diagnosed with this disease does NOT mean falls are inevitable; you can reduce the risk of losing your balance.  Learning about factors that increase the risk and how to effectively challenge your balance are two keys to staying safe.  

My book, The Complete Guide to Fall Prevention, will be on sale for a discounted price to workshop attendees.   My seated stretching and strengthening exercise DVDs, Take 5 to Exercise, will also be available at a discounted rate.

The motto of the PANC is .."until there is a cure, hope and healing everyday"...
I am the messenger and my message is good!
See you in April. 

Carlton Plaza
1075 Fulton Avenue
Sacramento, CA 95825
Friday, April 26
10a-noon.

The Fall Prevention Lady

Needed: Location to teach FallProof balance training

HELP WANTED!

I need locations in the South Bay/Palos Verdes/Los Angeles area in Southern California to teach a 4-week progressively challenging balance program that's designed to prevent falls, improve balance, and increase balance confidence in the older adult population.

Class meets for one-hour twice a week for four weeks.  Eight sessions.  I carry liability insurance and I want to help older adults remain independent and not fall down. This nationally-recognized program works!  I have been teaching it for over two years and have seen hundreds of lives transformed.

The program I teach, FallProof, is an evidence-based balance and mobility training program that is taught by certified specialists who are thoroughly trained in the progressively challenging balance techniques; many that are used by physical therapists after a fall. 

Physical therapists at ActiveRX don't want me to offer these classes there because I'll put them out of business!  If you don't fall, you won't need physical therapy.  Unfortunately my classes are not covered by Medicare (YET) but prevention training not only SAVES MONEY but also SAVES LIVES.

Assisted living facilities think they offer "fall prevention" classes but most staff who teach those classes are not certified balance and mobility specialists, personal fitness trainers or public health educators.  I can guarantee they don't have my experience in balance and mobility training.

If you want to offer a dynamic class that is fun and improves the quality of people's lives, please contact me, Kelly Ward, The Fall Prevention Lady.
Your participants, clients and members will thank you.  Your parents will thank you.

(916) 821-5715
info@thefallpreventionlady.com

Daughter of 87 year old woman with dementia demands in-home balance training

I recently moved to Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA and have been busy trying to find places to offer my fall prevention 101 workshops and balance and mobility training classes.  As I continue to network and seek a hosting agency, I am offering IN-HOME balance and fitness training.  I currently have three clients and everyone is making amazing progress.

Two weeks ago, I started working with an 87 year-old woman after I met her daughter at a workshop.  Her mother has dementia and doesn't like to leave the house.  She lives alone and has fallen several times.  Even though her daughter visits frequently, she is concerned about her mom and asked me to assess her. 

I have been working with her mom twice a week and she is doing amazing!  I did a pre- and post-assessment and she has improved her lower body flexibility by 3.5 inches!  She can now touch her toes!  This improvement can make it easier to put on her compression stockings, tie her shoes not to mention prevent a fall.

I attribute her amazing results to consistent practice.  She does the balance and stretching exercises everyday with her caregiver whom I taught how to do the balance, strengthening and stretching homework exercises and record them. 

87 years old and increased her lower body flexibility by nearly four inches in two weeks.  AMAZING.  It's never too late to improve your balance and prevent a fall.

Keep your parents or loved ones safe in their home.  Call me for in-home balance training.
(916) 821-5715.  Email me:  info@thefallpreventionlady.com

The Fall Prevention Lady

Handrails in home can prevent falls

As a fall prevention expert, I have researched factors that increase the risk of an accidental fall.   It is no surprise that most falls occur in the home because that is where older adults spend most of their time.  In my book, The Complete Guide to Fall Prevention, I discuss home modifications that can decrease the risk of falls so a person can remain independent.

PromenAid is a new handrail that is the solution to mobility problems around the house.  Easily installed anywhere you want more stability, such as going up stairs, down a long hallway, in and out of the front door.. you name it and the PromenAid can be installed.

This new product was designed to be easily installed in the home so that people can prevent falls and remain independent.   This aluminum handrail is lightweight but sturdy.  Each easy to install bracket supports over 500 pounds of pressure. 

Check out this amazing product at the website:  http://www.promenaid.com
Light, easy.  The solution to mobility problems in the home.

Remain independent with the help of PromenAid.

The Fall Prevention Lady

Fall Prevention for Older Adults by Kelly Ward at Baywood Court

Fall Prevention Interview on A-Z with Bea

The REAL Balance Manual

Plagiarism.   1. the verbatim copying or imitation of the language, ideas, or thoughts of another author and representing them as one’s own original work.

Noun

1.

plagiarism - a piece of writing that has been copied from someone else and is presented as being your own work.

I am the Fall Prevention Lady and my work and creativity from my book, The Complete Guide to Fall Prevention™,  has been plagiarized by Mike Ross, author of The Balance Manual.   He is using my hard work and creativity for his own marketing and sales.  He has added aspects from my book such as how to get up from a fall and upper body strengthening exercises among other things. 

This is absolute crap.   I am not the best at online marketing so I have to sit here and witness this total lack of integrity because the legal repercussions of online plagiarism are not in favor of the original author (ME).  

It's funny but years ago when I was developing my Take 5 to Exercise fall prevention DVD series, I went to an online marketing seminar.   Mike Ross was there.  The leader of the seminar acknowledged the fact that online plagiarism is rampant and there is nothing a person can do about it.    In fact, he encouraged the use of other people's marketing tactics even to the point that angry responses (such as this blog) can be used to boost sales.    Damned if I do and damned if I don't.

What can I do about online plagiarism?  Nothing because the repercussions are minimal.  It's ok, my God is a God of justice and there will be consequences for this lack of integrity.  The money may be good now but there will be cost for using my creativity and hard work.

So here's the bottom line, The Fall Prevention Lady is a balance and mobility expert who wrote a book, The Complete Guide to Fall Prevention, based on years of experience and research.   I am not an online marketer.  I do not plagiarize people's work. 

If you want to reduce the risk of a fall while improving your balance, order my book.
 CLICK HERE

Plagiarized,
The Fall Prevention Lady