Community Corner
Fairfield University & The Watermark Team Up for Class on Preventing Falls
On Wednesday, October 2, The Watermark at 3030 Park will kick off an eight week series called “A Matter of Balance,” a class designed to teach older adults how to manage their concerns about falling. The class will be held on Wednesdays in October and November from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the retirement community, located at 3030 Park Avenue on the Bridgeport-Fairfield town line.
“A Matter of Balance” is designed to help older adults make simple lifestyle changes that can decrease the risks of falling. The program is based upon research conducted by the Roybal Center for Enhancement of Late Life Functioning at Boston University and is designed specifically to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels of older adults who have concerns about falling. The program covers such topics as exploring thoughts and about falling, managing concerns about falling, and recognizing fall risks and hazards at home and in the community. The sessions include light exercises that contribute to improved balance and flexibility and overall conditioning.
Find out what's happening in Westportwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
The classes will be led by Fairfield University School of Nursing students under the guidance of Assistant Professors, Kathleen Lovanio, MSN, APRN and Geraldine Chalykoff, PhD, RN.
Find out what's happening in Westportwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
“Falling can have devastating effects on a person’s life and well-being, and learning simple techniques to help reduce or eliminate falls will only help people thrive as they continue to actively age,” said Tracy-Ann Samuel, Community Life Director at The Watermark at 3030 Park. “We encourage outside guests to attend the class and take advantage of Fairfield University’s expertise in geriatric care.”
The program is designed for people who would like to take preventative steps to reduce the risk of falling. It is not intended for people who have already experienced a fall which resulted in a sustained injury, or for people who have restricted activities due to falling in the past.
Classes will be held on October 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 and on November 6, 13 and 20. Each class is free of charge and open to the public, however seating is limited and reservations are required. For more information or to RSVP please contact Tracy-Ann Samuel at 203-374-5611.
