One-third of adults ages 65 years and older fall each year (Hornbrook 1994; Hausdorff, 2001).  Total hospital charges for fall-related inpatient hospitalizations involving Kentucky residents ages 65+ was on average $44,893 (Kentucky Injury Prevention and Research Center, 2014).  Fall related injuries for seniors cost around $20 billion a year (Health Leaders Media, 2006).  In addition, the fear of falling is often a real concern for the aging adult.  This fear may cause a reduction in activities, which then can lead to reduced mobility and physical fitness, and finally to an increase in their actual risk of falling.  In order to address these issues, the Garrard County Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent partnered with the Garrard County Senior Center and taught an eight week series called Matter of Balance. Twenty-six participants who were 65 years and older completed the Matter of Balance series, which focused on reducing the fear of falling, increasing physical activity, and learning fall prevention strategies.  Methods utilized from the Matter of Balance curriculum were the following:  personal action plans, home hazard checklists, assessing fall risk-taking behaviors, exercise training, and practical problem solving through group discussion. At the end of the program, participants filled out an evaluation form which indicated the following information: 100% of the participants felt more comfortable talking with others about their fear of falling, 100% made changes in their environment, and 100% felt more comfortable increasing their activity and planned to continue exercising.  Based on the average cost per person of an emergency room visit due to a fall ($2,800), the 26 participants who completed the Matter of Balance program could potentially save $72,800 in health care costs.  Comments reported on end of program survey included: "I am now walkind to mailbox at the end of road two times a day.", "I try to do most of my housework to walk more and i try to stay busy.", "I now don't hold on to handrail with my left hand, I carry grocery shopping bags with my left hand. It's weaker from a stroke.", "I checked all my batteries in flashlights and monitors.", "I have more interest in myself and I am going to keep it up!"

Although this survey came after only two months of organized class exercise, two participants reported feeling stronger than before the class and both had increased their regular exercise. One reporting not falling as they had before the exercise. 

A three month followup to this program will occur and options for repeating at Senior Center are being discussed.