As the pandemic continues to limit public activities, a free program now available at home can help Tukwila older adults lower their risk of falling.
Registrations are being accepted for balance, fitness and strength classes led by Stay Active and Independent for Life, or SAIL. The program is open to people 55 and above and is designed to be accessible to those who are low-income or of diverse communities. While falling is the leading cause of non-fatal and fatal injuries among older Americans, increasing physical mobility is one of the key ways they can reduce the hazard, according to the National Council on Aging.
- SAIL “Stay Active at Home” consists of one-hour classes provided online or on DVD, which participants take at home two or three times a week.
- Wi-Fi access, the DVD, light weights, exercise bands and other necessary items can be provided for free to those in need.
- Participants will also have access to online fall-prevention education events, individualized coaching/support, and health tips.
- Once public safety circumstances allow, the program will shift to in-person classes held at SHAG’s Tukwila Village Senior Living Apartments.
The program, funded by King County’s Veterans, Seniors and Human Services Levy (VSHSL) Grant, is a collaboration of the Community Life Foundation and Global to Local.
“One out of five falls among older adults causes a serious injury that could make it difficult to carry out daily activities and keep living one’s own,” said Karen Lucas, executive director of the Community Life Foundation. “We encourage the public to reduce their fall risk and sustain their independence by signing up for these free classes.”
To register for SAIL “Stay Active at Home” or obtain more information, call Lynne Vetsch at (206) 919-7566 or Tien Le at (206) 487-5248.
In addition, Global to Local will provide parallel fall-prevention SAIL programming in the Spanish-speaking and Somali communities. For information, contact AJ McClure at (206) 379-6051.
