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!
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