Matter of Balance, AARP New Mexico Seeks Coaches for Fall Prevention Courses

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A Matter of Balance, an evidenced based, fall prevention training program, and AARP New Mexico seeks individuals interested in becoming volunteer coaches for this new program.

“A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls” is conducted in eight two-hour sessions and uses group discussion, problem-solving strategies, videos and gentle physical exercise. Classes are held twice a week for two hours each, over a four-week period and are purposefully kept to a small size.

Individuals, who have recently fallen or have a fear of falling, learn positive coping methods to reduce falls, as well as learn how to remain active and stay independent.

“As we age, falling can impact our quality of life, and the more someone worries about falling the more likely they are to have an accident,” said Asia Negrón- Esposito, a Master Trainer with A Matter of Balance and an AARP New Mexico Volunteer Leader.

“Our intent in conducting these classes is to help people increase their confidence in managing their fear of falling and to continue to increase physical strength by engaging in further exercise beyond the classes, as well as making some small changes in their environment,”  Negrón-Esposito said.

“But in order to provide these classes, we need coaches who are willing to make a commitment, to conduct them in their community,” she said.

A Matter of Balance coaches help participants become more confident about managing falls by believing that they can increase their strength, find ways to reduce falls and protect themselves if they do fall. In addition, participants report that they have increased the amount they exercise on a regular basis.

Coaches need good communication and interpersonal skills, enthusiasm, dependability and a willingness to lead small groups of older adults. Coaches also need to be able to lead low to moderate levels of exercise.  Two coaches are present at each class. Coaches also undergo an eight-hour training which is accomplished in two morning sessions.

If you would like to more information on becoming a coach contact Asia Negrón-Esposito at   aesposito.20@comast.net