Why the A Matter of Balance Program?
A Matter of Balance is an evidence-based program designed to help older adults reduce their fear of falling while increasing confidence and activity levels in their daily lives. Offered in small groups, the program consists of sessions led by two trained coaches who guide participants through interactive discussions, problem-solving activities, and gentle exercise training. Through A Matter of Balance, participants learn to view falls as preventable and manageable, set realistic goals to stay active, and make practical changes to improve safety at home. The curriculum also focuses on building strength, balance, and coordination. By the end of A Matter of Balance workshop, participants gain tools and confidence needed to stay independent, reduce fall risks, and maintain a more active and engaged lifestyle.
Program Overview:
- Small Group Format
- 8-12 participants
- Led by two trained coaches
- Structured Sessions
- 8 sessions total
- Two hours per class
- Participant Outcomes
- Increased confidence and self-efficacy
- Improved strength and balance
- Safer home and daily activity habits
How to implement A Matter of Balance:
- Train coaches
- Complete 12-hour virtual Coach Training
- Attend annual 2.5-hour updates for coaches
- Deliver the program
- Two certified coaches lead each class
- Facilitate discussion, goal setting, and exercises
- Sustain the program
- Commit to offering at least two classes per year
- Submit participant data for reporting and support
Coach Requirements:
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Comfort leading small groups (in-person or virtual)
- Interest in working with older adults
- Ability to demonstrate low-level exercises
Please visit MaineHealth if you are looking to implement the A Matter of Balance Program.
The New State Department of Health Bureau of Occupational Health and Injury Prevention is a recipient of the 2025-2028 Expanding Strategies for Community Evidence-Based Falls Prevention Programming grant, administered by the Administration for Community Living. With this funding, we are able to pay for your training to become A Matter of Balance coach/trainer. In return, we require submission of participant data to FallsFree@stonybrookmedicine.edu on a regular basis to support our grant reporting and enable us to support you and the older adults you serve.
Please email Injury@health.ny.gov if you feel that A Matter of Balance is a good fit for you/your organization to schedule a brief call, to obtain the training information.
Instructor Materials – Data Collection Paperwork
Organizations funded by the Administration for Community Living are required to collect data on evidence-based falls prevention programs. Please find the necessary data paperwork at the National Council on Aging’s Data Collection Tools for Falls Prevention Programs, and please reach out to injury@health.ny.gov with any questions.