Reducing Fall Risk is Focus of Free Workshop Offered in St. Michaels

Access-to-Care
Stepping On, a free, seven-week workshop on reducing fall risk through balance training, strength training and education about risk factors for falls, will be offered on Thursdays, July 7-August 18, 9 a.m.-11 a.m., at Christ Episcopal Church in St. Michaels. Led by Kelly Marchetti, clinical coordinator for Shore Regional Health’s Balance Center, the workshop will include guest experts providing information on exercise, vision, safety and medications.

Kelly Marchetti, clinical specialist at UM Shore Regional Health’s Balance Center, will co-lead the free workshop, Stepping On, with Paula Baker, physical therapist  at UM Shore Rehab at Denton.
Kelly Marchetti, clinical specialist at UM Shore Regional Health’s Balance Center, will offer the Stepping On workshop in St. Michaels, beginning July 7

According to Marchetti, more than one-third of adults 65 or over fall each year. “For older adults, falls are the leading cause of injury, hospital admissions for trauma and even death,” she says. “Taking steps to reduce fall risk as we age is a key strategy in protecting our health and independence. We recently offered the Stepping On workshop in Denton for 15 participants, and they found it very helpful in maintaining their balance, mobility and safety.”
Stepping On is ideal for persons who are 65 years old or more; have had a fall in the past year or are fearful of falling; live in a private home (as opposed to a residential care community); and are able to walk in an indoor environment without needing a walker or cane. The workshop teaches simple and fun balance and strength training; the role vision plays in keeping your balance; how medications can contribute to falls; staying safe when out and about; what to look for in safe footwear; and how to check your home for safety.
Anyone interested in registering for this free workshop may do so by contacting Kelly Marchetti, 410-221-0029, kmarchetti@umm.edu.