MONROE — One in four older adults has a fall each year, and among those falls, Wisconsin leads the nation in fall-related deaths for people age 60 and older. The good news is that falls are not a normal part of aging and can be prevented. 

The Stepping On workshop put on by the ARDC is free and open to the general public. It will be held Wednesdays from 9-11 a.m. between May 17 to July 5 in the Multipurpose Rooms 2 & 3 on the lower level of the Green County Human Services Building in Monroe. Pre-registration is necessary to participate. To register, call the ADRC Green County Office at 608-328-9499. There are no living in-county restrictions.

In just seven weekly, 2-hour sessions, Stepping On gives participants strategies for avoiding falls, which in turn leaves them with less fear, more confidence, and overall better health outcomes. The program has been researched and proven to reduce falls by 31%. 

Much of the information learned in Stepping On include; balance and strength exercises, home safety hazard check, medication review, vision issues, community safety issues, and much more. Participants will hear from guest experts throughout the program, which includes a physical therapist, vision expert, pharmacist, and police officer. 

All experts provide vital and relevant information within their range of expertise pertaining to falls prevention. The workshop is designed specifically for older adults who have fallen or have a fear of falling. Participants can expect to leave with more strength, better balance, and a feeling of confidence and independence.