Falling Prevention Priority for Local Seniors
By: Brendaliss Gonzalez
Updated: April 3, 2012
"Well people our age you know are very likely to fall at one time before they die and I don't want to be one of them," said Schaff.
The 75 year old wants to make sure she's not among the millions of senior citizens around the nation who are hospitalized from a falling injury.
"When I think at our age we take so much for granted and you don't even think about falls, but since we've been here, I've been very aware of it," she said.
That's why she made sure to attend the Balance Matters seminar at the Rose Park Senior Center during the month of March.
The weekly course provided information on falling prevention to help seniors be aware of the risks and dangers of trips and stumbles.
"The importance of the matter of balance is to help older adults reduce their fear of falling and we do that by group discussion and by talking about ways they can change things in their lives," said Sue Raseewski, a program coordinator for the West Texas Area Agency on Aging.
The eight week program was offered by the Area Agency on Aging. Participants learned about faulty habits and exercises to ensure they maintain proper balance.
"This is just making people aware to be able to take care of themselves and to know those risks and learn how to overcome those risks," said Raseewski.
Schaff says the class was essential for gaining the confidence she needs.
"I feel like I can go and do anything and I don't have to worry too much because I think it's all up here (pointing to mind) that I'm not going to fall," she said.


