Health district celebrates Fit and Fall Proof milestone

Eastern Idaho Public Health celebrated 10 years of success with its Fit and Fall Proof program.

The program was implemented throughout Idaho to reduce the risk of falls and improve mobility, balance, flexibility and strength. In Idaho, from 2010 to 2013, 469 people age 65 and older died from fall-related injuries. That number is 1 1/2 times more than the national average.

FFP is a free, exercise-based fall prevention program for seniors. It focuses on low-intensity exercises to help prevent falls and promote healthy and independent lifestyles.

“That’s what our hope is, that they can stay independent and those years that they are independent in their homes so they have a great life,” said Injury Prevention Program Coordinator Timalee Geisler. “These classes are also great for a social aspect. They have a great friendship going in their Fit and Fall Proof classes and that’s just as important as the physical aspect.”

Class schedules and tips for adult living can be found on the Eastern Idaho Public Health website.