Free ‘A Matter of Balance’ classes starting in the spring

DEXTER — As people grow older, some develop a fear of falling, either because they have experienced a fall or are beginning to feel unsteady as a result of dizziness, weakened muscles, less flexible joints or a specific medical condition. The fear of broken bones, particularly a broken hip or a head injury, can keep people afraid to do simple exercises to strengthen muscles and flex joints, to do routine household tasks, or to go to social gatherings and appointments. No one wants to fall, lose their independence, or become a burden to others. Falling and fear of falling can seriously compromise quality of life.

Contributed composite photo

A MATTER OF BALANCE — Dodie Curtis, left, and Terri Palin will run a series of free A Matter of Balance classes in April at the Abbott Memorial Library in Dexter. For more information, please contact Liz Breault at 924-7292.

To reduce fear of falling and increase activity levels in senior adults, the Matter of Balance program was developed. It is nationally-recognized and evidence-based having been developed at Boston University and adopted by Maine’s Partnership for Healthy Aging to improve the health status of older adults.

The co-founders of the Skeleton Crew, Liz Breault and Beth Ranagan, are excited to announce that A Matter of Balance classes will be held at the Abbott Memorial Library in Dexter beginning Monday, April 11. This bi-weekly program will run for four consecutive weeks on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The Community Fitness Center in Guilford, a licensed Matter of Balance trainer site, has graciously agreed to allow two of its master trainers, Dodie Curtis and Terri Palin, to teach the classes. Curtis, an RN, has been teaching classes since 2007. Her co-teacher Palin is a senior fitness instructor at the Community Fitness Center as well as a master trainer.

Ranagan, a member of the Thriving in Place’s Fall Reduction Team, reported, “I have wanted to see a program like this in Dexter since last summer,” while Breault, librarian at Abbott Memorial Library, commented, “To have this excellent program at the library as part of our Skeleton Crew program is just wonderful for all those who are working to maintain their health as they age.”

The Abbott Memorial Library has become a catalyst of learning for people of all ages. Both Ranagan and Breault agree that, “All good things happen at the library for everyone and, now, especially for seniors!”

To participate in upcoming Matter of Balance classes attendees must be at least 60 years of age, be ambulatory and be able to problem solve. Classes are open to both men and women, with two men already enrolled. For more information about enrollment, contact Breault at 924-7292.

The Skeleton Crew is grateful to the Abbott Memorial Library Board of Directors for the generous scholarship program making it possible for seniors to participate in these life-changing classes free of charge.