Volunteer with Older Adults – Become a Matter of Balance Coach!
February 3, 2023
The winter weather in eastern Washington can be treacherous, especially for individuals at risk of falling such as those over 60. According to the CDC, one million injuries a year and 17,000 deaths are caused by slipping and falling on ice/snow.
Chances are you know someone who has fallen or who is afraid of falling. Aging & Long Term Care of Eastern WA (ALTCEW) is looking for volunteers to help coach our A Matter of Balance class, a proven program designed to help people manage concerns about falls and increase physical activity.
A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls is conducted in 8 two-hour sessions and uses group discussion, problem–solving strategies, videos, and gentle physical exercise. Older adults learn positive coping methods to reduce fear of falling and remain active and independent.
A Matter of Balance coaches help participants become more confident about managing falls by helping them increase their strength, find ways to reduce falls, and protect themselves if they do fall. In addition, participants report that they have increased the amount they exercise on a regular basis.
Aging and Long Term Care of Eastern Washington is currently searching for volunteer coaches who are strong communicators, enjoy teaching and presenting, and love working with older adults. Coaches will present this award-winning course to groups of 8 to 12 people throughout Spokane County and beyond who are concerned about falling. MOB coaching is a fun and rewarding experience.
There will be an information session to learn more about becoming A Matter of Balance coach on February 22nd at 1222 N Post Street Spokane, WA 99201 from 2 – 3 PM. The coach training will be held on February 27th and March 1st in the same location listed above from 10 AM – 2 PM. To learn more about this or other falls prevention programs at Aging & Long Term Care, visit www.altcew.org/programs-services/preventing-falls.
If you would like to attend, registration is required. Please contact Philip Helean, A Matter of Balance Coordinator at 509.777.1571 or email Philip.helean@dshs.wa.gov.
