COVID-19 Update: All classes are being held virtually. For more info, call 510-881-0300 x270.
The primary goal of the Fall Prevention Program (FPP) is to reduce and/or prevent the number of falls among at-risk low-income seniors. The FPP uses a multi-pronged approach proven to be the most effective strategy to address the range of issues that leads to falls:
- BEHAVIORAL. We educate and raise awareness about: falls and fall prevention, sedentary lifestyle, medication management, and better eating habits.
- PHYSICAL. We offer fall prevention skills-building training sessions that help to develop strength, improve mobility and balance and increase hand-eye coordination.
- ENVIRONMENTAL. We make suggestions during class and workshops for simple changes to their home environment i.e. grab bars, smoke alarms, stair railings, and hand held showers.
We also provide:
- Prevention education and skills-building training to raise awareness about risk factors that lead to unintentional falls.
- Free assessments to evaluate your risk for falling.
- Free classes that focus on strength, balance, mobility, and endurance.
- Free Falls Prevention booklets that include tips for home safety.
- Presentations to you and your loved ones or caregivers, community outreach to senior centers, senior residents, and senior health fairs.
Why?
- Falls are a common occurrence among seniors with at least 30% over age 65 taking a fall and falls are the leading cause of injury death (CDC 2001).
- In the year 2000, those 65+ represented slightly over 10% of the population of Alameda County yet accounted for 43% of the hospitalizations and deaths due to unintentional injuries (77% are falls).
- A recent study of people aged 72 and older found that the average health care cost of a fall injury was $19, 440 (excluding physician services) (Rizzo 1998).
Please Note:
- There is no obligation to contribute.
- A contribution is purely voluntary.
- No eligible participants will be denied service because of a failure or inability to contribute.