Information provided by Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County. Lea este artículo en español aquí.
The Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County’s Empowered Aging Division announced today that it is expanding the “A Matter of Balance” falls prevention program to San Benito County, supported by a grant from the Central California Alliance for Health. The award-winning, evidence-based program, designed to reduce fear of falling and increase activity levels among older adults, will kick off in San Benito County with a volunteer coaches training session at the Community Foundation for San Benito County, Epicenter Building on Nov. 18-19, 2024, followed by a free 4-week class for local seniors beginning early next year at the Mary Velasco Sellen Senior Center in San Juan Bautista.
“Bringing Matter of Balance to the seniors of San Juan Bautista in January 2025 for free, and finding local resident volunteer trainers, is a huge win for the seniors of our community,” said Shawna Freels, a board member at the Mary Velasco Sellen Senior Center. “It allows them to learn skills in strengthening their bodies and managing falls safely — a core mission of the Mary Velasco Sellen Senior Center of San Juan Bautista.”
This initiative, funded by CCAH’s Partners for Active Living Program, increases access to essential physical activity and recreational opportunities for seniors in the region. In collaboration with local health educators, the program will offer free “A Matter of Balance” classes in English and Spanish at no cost to seniors in San Benito County, where specialized, cost-free services are currently limited.
A Matter of Balance Program Overview:
Developed by the National Council on Aging, A Matter of Balance aims to empower seniors to lead active, independent lives. The program includes strategies for managing falls, setting activity goals, reducing risks, and promoting exercises that improve strength and balance. Each four-week course consists of two-hour classes twice a week, and participants receive refreshments and a training manual. Graduates of the program also qualify for additional services, including free grab bar installations.
“We’ve seen firsthand in Santa Cruz County how “A Matter of Balance” impacts lives by empowering seniors to feel safer and more independent,” said Tara Ireland, director of the Volunteer Center’s Empowered Aging division. “This grant allows us to bring these critical services to seniors in San Benito County, expanding our reach to underserved communities.”
For information on participating in A Matter of Balance or becoming a volunteer coach, contact Ares Bartell at (831) 427-5070 x115 or email ares.bartell@scvolunteercenter.org.
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