ST. GEORGE — Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries for people age 65 and older. “Stepping On” is an evidence-based program that teaches older adults to make behavior changes that prevent future falls.
Classes are free and cover the following topics: exercises to improve balance and strength, home modifications, community safety, vision, medication review and safe footwear.
Guest presenters include a physical therapist, a pharmacist and an optometrist.
The seven-week program begins in Hurricane in May and St. George in July. Seniors at risk for falls, who have a history of falls or have a fear of falling are encouraged to attend.
Stepping On is uniquely effective as classes are highly-interactive. Instructors provide support that builds participants’ sense of success and confidence in the ability to reduce the risk of falls and to maintain active and fulfilling lives.
Post-program surveys from similar northern Utah classes show participants self-reported a 74 percent decrease in all falls and an 83 percent in injurious falls during the class compared to the three months before the class.
Stepping On – class information and registration
Hurricane
- When: Thursdays, May 5 through June 16, from 9-11 a.m.
- Where: Intermountain Hurricane Valley Clinic, 75 N. 2260 West, Hurricane
St. George
- When: Thursdays, July 7 through August 19, from 1-3 p.m.
- Where: The second floor classroom in the Dixie Regional Health & Performance Center, 652 S. Medical Center Drive, St. George
Registration
- Contact Teri Koenig at telephone 435-251-3788 or by email to [email protected]
Email: [email protected]
Twitter: @STGnews