Purdue Extension Jackson County is partnering with Thrive Alliance to offer a virtual Matter of Balance class.

The free program will be presented via Zoom from 1 to 3 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday from Oct. 28 to Nov. 23.

To register or for information, call 812-372-6918 or 812-358-6101.

Fear of falling can be just as dangerous as falling itself. People who develop this fear often limit their activities, which can result in severe physical weakness, making the risk of falling even greater.

Matter of Balance is an award-winning program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels and emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls.

This class is for anyone concerned about falls, interested in improving balance, flexibility and strength, those who have fallen in the past and people who have restricted activities because of falling concerns.

The evidence-based program can help individuals improve their quality of life and remain independent while reducing the fear of falling.

Participants learn to set realistic goals to increase activity, change their environment to reduce fall risk factors and learn simple exercises to increase strength and balance.