Home News Free “Matter of Balance” Program Helps Older Adults Reduce Fall Risks and Stay Active

Free “Matter of Balance” Program Helps Older Adults Reduce Fall Risks and Stay Active

In the woods, a white-haired woman balances on a log while holding a man's hand.

MACOMB, Ill. — Many older adults experience fear of falling, often limiting their daily activities and independence. To support community members in building confidence and staying active, University of Illinois Extension is offering A Matter of Balance. Taught by popular Extension Health and Wellness Educator Tessa Hobbs-Curley, this award-winning, evidence-based program is designed to help adults manage fall concerns and safely increase activity levels.

The free program will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays, September 29 through October 22, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the YMCA Senior Center of McDonough County, 400 E. Calhoun St., Macomb.

A Matter of Balance uses practical strategies, gentle exercises, and supportive group discussion to help participants view falls as controllable, make simple changes to improve safety at home, and build strength, balance, and flexibility. The program is ideal for adults 60 and older, as well as anyone looking to improve stability, mobility, and peace of mind.

“Falls don’t have to be a natural part of aging,” says Hobbs‑Curley. “With the right tools and confidence, older adults can stay active, stay strong, and stay independent.”

Registration is required by phone. Space is limited. Call 309‑837‑5733 to reserve your spot.

For more information about health and wellness programs, explore Extension resources at go.illinois.edu/HKMW or contact the McDonough County Extension office.

About Extension

University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 500 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through five program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, health and community wellness, and natural resources, environment, and energy.