Falls Prevention and Exercise Programs

While aging is inevitable, falling is not. Many adults can benefit from learning low-impact exercise to improve balance and strategies to increase confidence and reduce their fear of falling. OWN delivers evidence-based classes that have been proven to help older adults reduce their risk of falling. Some are provided in group settings, and some are offered one-on-one in their home.

Walk With Ease / Camine con Gusto

Walk With Ease is an evidence-based physical activity program, developed by the Arthritis Foundation. It is proven to reduce pain associated with arthritis and improve overall health. In Oregon, the program is offered in-person, virtually, and as a self-directed program through the Oregon State University Extension Service. As part of the program, participants will learn to exercise safely, incorporate stretching and strengthening exercises into their routine, develop a walking plan, and overcome barriers. All participants receive a free Walk With Ease guidebook.

This program is available in English and Spanish. To register for the self-directed Walk With Ease program, click here.

Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance

A group exercise program that is derived from the martial arts that uses eight movement techniques specifically designed to improve balance, mobility, and strength, and reduce falls. This 12-week class is designed for older adults looking to improve balance, increase strength, and prevent falls.

Functional measures tests are administered at the first and last class to show participant progress. Program can be modified for participants with mobility challenges by using a chair. Developed by Fuzhong Li, Ph.D., a senior scientist at Oregon Research Institute.

Program Resources:

Find this program near you.

Call (833) 673-9355 for more information.

A Matter of Balance

This is an 8-week evidence-based senior fall prevention program that was developed at the Royal Center of Boston University. It is held in 2-hour sessions. The program’s goal is to reduce fear of falling, stop the fear of falling cycle, and increase activity levels among community-dwelling older adults.

Program Resources:

Find this program near you.

Call (833) 673-9355 for more information.

Enhance Fitness

This is a low-cost, evidence-based group exercise and falls prevention program. It helps older adults at all levels of fitness become more active, energized, and empowered to sustain independent lives.

Program Resources:

Find this program near you.

Call (833) 673-9355 for more information.

Otago Exercise Program

This 12-month program is an individually customized home exercise program designed to improve strength and balance and to prevent falls. The program includes a physical therapy evaluation to determine if the Otago Program is appropriate, followed by progressive series of exercises that are taught to the participant and their caregiver. Ideal for individuals who have fallen in the last year, have a fear of falling or who are at greater risk for falling, e.g., 80+ years old.

Program Resources:

Call (833) 673-9355 for more information.

Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program

This is an evidence-based water exercise program created by the Arthritis Foundation and the Y-USA for people with arthritis and related conditions.

The classes are conducted by a trained instructor and include joint range of motion, stretching, breathing, and light aerobic activities, all done inside a pool.

The classes typically meet for one hour, 2-3 times per week for 6-10 weeks.

Program Resources:

Call (833) 673-9355 for more information.

Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program

Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program is a land-based recreational group exercise program that includes a variety of exercises that can be performed sitting, standing, or lying on the floor.

Programs offer multiple components to help reduce pain and stiffness, and to maintain or improve mobility, muscle strength, and functional ability.

Classes are offered for 1 hour, 2-3 times per week for 8 to 12 weeks.

Program Resources:

Find this program near you.

Call (833) 673-9355 for more information.

Stepping On Program

Stepping On is a seven-week program designed for people who are living at home and have experienced a fall or are concerned about falling.

The program is an evidence-based program that is effective and proven to reduce falls in older people living in the community. The program incorporates strategies to implement positive lifestyle changes to keep you independent, upright, and active.

Program Resources:

Call (833) 673-9355 for more information.