Penn Highlands Elk to Offer “A Matter of Balance”

Many older adults experience a fear of falling. People who develop this fear often limit their activities, which can result in physical weakness, making the risk of falling even greater.

Penn Highlands Elk is offering “A Matter of Balance” (MOB), an evidenced based program designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels among older adults. The in-person classes, which are offered free to the community, include 8 two-hour sessions. The classes are scheduled every Monday beginning April 6, 2026 and will continue until the end of May with the last class being held Tuesday, May 26, 2026 due to Memorial Day. They are held from 1:00 to 3:00 PM in the Penn Highlands Elk Education Center.

The sessions, which are led by two trained facilitators/coaches, emphasize practical strategies to manage falls including how to set goals for increasing activity, make changes to reduce falls and view them as controllable. The program also includes non-strenuous exercise and stretching to improve strength and balance.

The program is ideal for anyone concerned about falls; those interested in improving balance, flexibility and strength; people who have fallen in the past; and anyone who has restricted activities due to falling concerns.

Space is limited. To register or for questions, email your name and telephone number to [email protected] or contact Lisa Dush at 814-335-8768.