Volunteers needed for Matter of Balance training

Warrensburg, MO – Chances are you know someone who has fallen or who is afraid of falling. A Matter of Balance is a proven program designed to help people manage concerns about falls and increase physical activity. Care Connection for Aging Services is looking for volunteers to help provide this program.

A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls is conducted in eight sessions of two hours each and uses group discussion, problem–solving strategies, videos and gentle physical exercise. Older adults learn positive coping methods to reduce fear of falling and remain active and independent.

A Matter of Balance coaches help participants become more confident about managing falls by believing that they can increase their strength, find ways to reduce falls, and protect themselves if they do fall. In addition, participants report that they have increased the amount they exercise on a regular basis.

A Matter of Balance coaches need good communication and interpersonal skills, enthusiasm, dependability and a willingness to lead small groups of older adults. Coaches also need to be able to lead low to moderate level exercise.

A training session is being held on Friday, March 4, 2016, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Warrensburg Senior Center, 445 East Gay, Warrensburg, MO.

If you would like to attend or want more information, please contact your local senior center or Vickie Whitsitt, Lifestyle Specialist, at Care Connection for Aging Services, 660-747-3107.

Care Connection for Aging Services, a non-profit area agency on aging serving West Central Missouri, operates 22 senior centers in 13 counties — including Bates, Benton, Carroll, Cedar, Chariton, Henry, Hickory, Johnson, Lafayette, Pettis, Saline, St. Clair and Vernon. Its mission is to provide resources and services that empower people to create healthy aging experiences. For more information, call 1-800-748-7826 or email us at information@goaging.org.