You may want to consider a physical therapist, preferably one with special training on older adult falls. Many physical therapists are trained to find out why you/your patient is falling, and help them with recovery solutions, such as strength and balance exercises to help reduce the chance of falling again.
One physical therapy program that has been shown to reduce falls among older adults is the Otago Falls Prevention Program (developed in New Zealand).
Stepping On is an evidence-based workshop meeting once per week for seven weeks, two hours per week, with a reunion class three months later. The class is led by trained leaders who work with you and your classmates to help improve your balance and reduce your risk of falling by reviewing medications, exploring the role of vision and falls, teaching strength and balance exercises, and offering help to improve your safety at home. Members of the class support each other’s efforts to take action to prevent falls. Older adults who may have balance problems or fear of falling are the best fit for this class. According to studies, people who complete Stepping On classes see a 31% reduction in falls. A Stepping On workshop costs $35 for the seven week session and includes the reunion class.
An additional 15-30 minutes will be added to the first class of the workshop series to complete paperwork (surveys and data collection).
For research on Stepping on from the CDC, click here.
Available Workshops:
248 W. Main St., Stoughton
Wednesdays, July 12 – August 23 from 9:30am – 11:30am
To register, contact the Stoughton Senior Center at 608-873-8585
Cost: $0
1011 Nichols Rd., Monona
Tuesdays, September 5 – October 17 from 12:30pm – 2:30pm
To register, contact the Monona Senior Center at 608-222-3415
Cost: $0
2529 Allen, Blvd., Middleton
Mondays, September 11 – October 23 from 10:15am – 12:15pm
To register, contact the Harbor Athletic Club at 608-831-6500
Cost: $0
5510 Lacy Rd., Fitchburg
Mondays, September 11 – October 23
To register, contact the Fitchburg Senior Center at 608-270-4290
Cost: $0
401 S. Owen Dr., Madison
Tuesdays, September 12 – October 24 (3rd week class will be on Wed., Sept. 27) from 9:30am – 11:30am
To register, contact Crystal at 608-231-4614
Cost: $0
5313 Flad Ave., Madison
Fridays, September 15 – November 3 (no class Sept. 29) from 12:00pm – 2:00pm
To register, contact St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church at 608-271-7421
Cost: $0
275 N. City Station Dr., Sun Prairie
Tuesdays, October 3 – November 14 from 1:30pm – 3:30pm
To register, contact Talamore Senior Living at 608-834-2800
Cost: $0
Available Classes:
Participants encouraged to take Goodman Community Center’s Virtual Tai Chi Class (call 608-241-1574 for information)
Please call Goodman Community Center for information about virtual Tai Chi (608) 241-1574
Contact MSCR for program guide and information about Goodman Rotary 50+ Classes: 608-204-3023
This class is specifically for individuals diagnosed with Parkinson Disease. Class content is based on current research focusing on improving mobility. It consists of multi-directional treadmill walking and floor exercises emphasizing trunk mobility. Additional strengthening exercise with resistance equipment may be given on an individual basis. All new participants must present a physician’s authorized screening prior to participation.
Tues/Thurs, September 5 – December 14, 2023 (no class 11/23); 12:05 – 1:25 (Divided into class times of 12:05-12:55 or 12:35-1:25)
UW Health Fitness Center, Science Drive Medical Center, 621 Science Dr., Madison
Cost: $441 (some discounts available)
Call 608-263-7936 to schedule a screening before enrolling
Visit www.uwhealth.org/PEP for more information
Living Falls Free is a practical falls risk reduction exercise class. Course content includes learning the exercises of the as well as learning falls reduction strategies specific for your life. Class includes a take-home exercise program and pre/post performance testing. This is a moderate level class with walking, rocker boards, strength work and exercise at standing, chair and floor level. Gait dynamics and movement technique are emphasized.
Wednesdays, September 27 – November 29, 2023 from 10:45am – 11:45am
UW Health Fitness Center, Science Drive Medical Center, 621 Science Dr., Madison
Cost: $156 (some discounts available)
Call 608-263-7936 to schedule a screening before enrolling
Visit www.uwhealth.org/LFF for more information
This program is designed to increase balance and decrease the risk of falling by using tai chi movements and principles. Standing and chair-based exercises are adapted to individual needs. Classes are held at Madison School & Community Recreation locations. Click here to visit the MSCR website for more details.
Available Classes: Call 608-204-3023
MSCR offers multiple classes which can improve balance and help prevent falls. The “B” (for balance) symbol identifies exercise classes that help prevent falls in older adults. The “B” classes incorporate both balance and strength training. Scientific literature has shown balance training to be the best exercise for fall prevention.
https://www.mscr.org/our-programs/50-fitness-programs
Balancing and Strength Exercises
Research shows that to reduce chances of falling, people must include balance and strength exercises that are progressive (get more challenging over time), and that are practiced for at least 50 hours over 15 weeks. Anyone interested in preventing falls should add these activities to their daily and weekly routine. And it’s important to keep going – any improvements to balance can be lost quickly if we don’t keep it up. And keep walking, swimming, stretching – or moving any way you like – it’s worth it!
Ballroom Basics for Balance™Challenge your balance and make it better with basic moves of ballroom dance! Research shows that dance is one way to improve balance and reduce falls. This class is for you if:
You will learn basic movements of traditional smooth and Latin style ballroom dances with and without music; you can practice on your own or with a partner in this group class. We will learn to dance while learning about improving balance. No experience or partner needed! Taught by physical therapists and other health care professionals.
Available Classes: Virtual and Outdoor Classes Now Available!! Check the website for additional information: https://www.ballroombasicsforbalance.org
To register for the summer 2023 session at Yahara Place Park, click HERE!
Middleton Senior Center Ballroom Basics for Balance Black Power Dance Graham Beginning Adult Low Flying Trapeze for Older Adults Basics of Aikido Middleton Senior Center Chair Yoga Middleton Senior Center Strength & Flexibility Virtual Senior Strength and Stretch – Hosted by NewbridgeMondays and Wednesdays, ongoing
9:00am – 9:45am (except public holidays)
$20/month to access all Monday/Wednesday classes
Contact Becky Otte-Ford to sign up at 608-215-4119 or raonine@gmail.com
Parkour Senior: Only Soft Landings! Travel through your world with joy and creativity! Learn balance and coordination, work on preventing falls, find more flexibility in your body and more movement options for your life! The curriculum is informed by PK Silver, the world’s first and only evidence-based parkour program for older adults.
Check back for available classes!
Ageless Balance – VirtualRegain your balance with simple and safe seated and standing exercises that can be modified for any fitness level. Information will be provided about how to prevent falls. This class is designed to improve balance, as well as strength, endurance, and flexibility, while increasing muscle mass and bone density. Free exercise equipment provided when you register.
Virtual classes are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 1:30pm – 2:15pm.
Click here to register and for more information: https://agelessbalance.com/class-registration/
Cost: $25/month
Verona Senior Center Cup of Chi (Zoom)Instructor – Jody Curley
Tuesdays, 11:30am – 12:15pm
Ongoing from January 10, 2023
For registration information, contact Jody Curley – jodycurley@gmail.com
$5 per class
Website: Tai Chi Peace Zoom Studio
Monona Senior Center Cup of Chi (Zoom)Instructor – Jody Curley
Thursdays, 11:30am – 12:15pm
Ongoing from January 12, 2023
For registration information, contact Jody Curley – jodycurley@gmail.com
$5 per class
Website: Tai Chi Peace Zoom Studio
Monona Senior Center Tai Chi Ease (Zoom)Instructor – Jody Curley
Mondays, 11:00am – 12:00pm
Ongoing from January 9, 2023 (skip 1/16/23 for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day)
For registration information, contact Jody Curley – jodycurley@gmail.com
$5 per class
Website: Tai Chi Peace Zoom Studio
Tai Chi Chuan Short Form and Long Form (Zoom)Instructor – Jody Curley
Saturdays, 10:00am – 11:00am William CC Chen 60 Movements Short Form
Saturdays, 11:15am – 12:00pm 132 Movement Yang Style Long Form Review
Ongoing from January 7, 2023
For registration information, contact Jody Curley at jodycurley@gmail.com
Website: Tai Chi Peace Zoom Studio
$10 per class
Strength Stretch Balance – VirtualExercise class done standing and sitting with an emphasis on resistance exercise, mobility and range of motion, and balance (no getting down on the floor)
Instructor: Marlene Storms
Supplies Needed: armless chair, hand weights, towel or small ball (larger than a tennis ball, smaller than a soccer ball), water; optional: ankle weights
Cost: $50/month per household (includes Plank/Floor classes)
To register, contact Marlene Storms at thedailyfitwithmarlene@
Plank/Floor – VirtualMore intense exercise class with emphasis on resistance exercise, mobility and range of motion, and balance
Instructor: Marlene Storms
Supplies Needed: yoga mat, hand weights, water
Cost: $50/month per household (includes Strength Stretch Balance classes)
To register, contact Marlene Storms at thedailyfitwithmarlene@
Mindful MovementProgram designed for seniors but open to any adult interested. Contact Venus Washington for information.
Get Movin: A gentle exercise program for every fitness level. Contact Venus Washington for information.
Instructor: Venus Washington
Website: Venus Washington | Welcome to my Health Coach Site
Madison Circus Space’s Beginning German WheelA circus art that uses the wheel, an apparatus made of metal hoops connected with spokes. Completely supervised, this is a fun and totally different way to be active and fit! Check website for class schedule.
Instructor: Carly Schuna
Website: https://madisoncircusspace.com
Tai Chi Fundamentals – The Tai Chi Fundamentals Program offers a clear system for mastering the basics of tai chi while retaining the integrity of traditional Yang Style tai chi (Cheng Man Ch’ing lineage). This program is designed to make tai chi clear and accessible for beginners with a wide range of abilities, and for experienced practitioners wishing to refine essential groundwork.
ROM Dance/Gentle Exercise- The ROM Dance is a gentle mind/body exercise and relaxation program designed especially for people with pain and other physical conditions which may limit movement. “ROM” stands for Range-Of-Motion exercises recommended by doctors and therapists to help keep the joints flexible. The ROM Dance incorporates these movements with basic mind/body principles from tai chi, and is accompanied by quiet music and a verse that evokes light, warmth and well being.
Instructor: Rachel Sandretto
Websites: http://taichicenterofmadison.com/fund.shtml http://taichicenterofmadison.com/rom.shtml
*Please call for information about in-person and virtual classes 608-663-8299
Yang (Cheng Man Ch’ing/Taiwan Form) All Levels – Tai chi is a form of qigong (energy cultivation). Based in martial arts movements, tai chi provides training in proper body mechanics and natural alignment. It fosters a relaxed body and a peaceful state of mind, which are essential ingredients for cultivating healthy energy or qi.
Instructor: Doug Brown
Website: http://taichicenterofmadison.com/yang.shtml#cheng
*Please call for information about in-person and virtual classes 608-663-8299
Yang 1 Beginner Tai Chi
Yang 2 – 3 Intermediate Tai Chi
Tai chi is a form of qigong (energy cultivation). Based in martial arts movements, tai chi provides training in proper body mechanics and natural alignment. It fosters a relaxed body and a peaceful state of mind, which are essential ingredients for cultivating healthy energy or qi.
Instructor: Bruce Aunet
Website: http://taichicenterofmadison.com/yang.shtml
*Please call for information about in-person and virtual classes 608-663-8299
2453 Atwood Ave., Ste 210
Madison, WI 53704
Phone: (608) 441-3060
Fall Prevention Classes | Safe Communities Madison, WI (safercommunity.net)
Learn about community resources and classes (both evidence-based and evidence-informed) that could help prevent a fall. Classes include Stepping On, Living Falls Free, Tai Chi Fundamentals, Moving for Better Balance, Ballroom Basics for Balance, and many more!
University Hospital
600 Highland Ave.
Madison, WI 53792
(608) 890-8400
Faint and Fall Clinic Website
The Mobility and Falls Clinic is for our older adults who may be at risk for losing independence, who are experiencing:
(608) 204-3023
http://www.mscr.org/our-programs/50-fitness-programs
MSCR 50+ programs include aqua exercise, strength training, low impact fitness, yoga, Tai Chi, golf, walking clubs and many more at affordable prices.
Medications Linked to Falls-Resource from CDC (PDF)
Postural Hypotension-Resource from CDC (PDF)
The Wisconsin Pharmacy Quality Collaborative (WPQC) is an initiative of the Pharmacy Society of Wisconsin (PSW) which connects community pharmacists with patients, physicians, and health plans to improve the quality and reduce the cost of medication use across Wisconsin. This team-based approach has brought stakeholders together in a unique collaboration with the goal of ensuring safe and high-quality care to patients in Wisconsin. WPQC coordinates a network of pharmacies with certified pharmacists who have received specific Medication Therapy Management (MTM) training. WPQC pharmacists meet privately with patients to review medication regimens, communicate potential opportunities to improve medication use with physicians and other health care providers, and educate patients on the appropriate use of their medications. The medication use and safety goals of WPQC are to resolve drug therapy problems, improve adherence and coordination of care, and engage patients in their own care. Click here to access list of WPQC pharmacy locations.
Find out where to safely dispose of unused or unwanted medications. MedDrop is a safe, secure way to dispose of unwanted medications which could unintentionally be consumed by children and others, or be scavenged from the trash and sold illegally. MedDrop disposal reduces the amount of improperly disposed medicine that can eventually contaminate area rivers, lakes, and streams. For more information, Click Here.
RECOVERY IS POSSIBLE
Safe communities has complied a list of abbreviation definitions for finding the right treatment for you.
MAT: Medication for Addiction Treatment.
OP: Outpatient Treatment – person lives at home or in the community, attends. individual and group therapy, these can include or not include MAT.
IOP: Intensive Outpatient Treatment – person lives at home or in the community, attends individual and extended groups, 9-12 hours a week.
Residential: person lives at the facility for a period of at least 14 days, some last as many as 45 days.
PHP: Partial Hospitalization Program is a structured mental health treatment program that runs for several hours each day, three to five days per week.
DBT: Dialectical behavior therapy is a form of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that integrates mindfulness techniques.
