PROGRAMS

Evidence-Based Programs

Stepping On

A program proven to reduce falls and build confidence in older adults. Participants gain knowledge and skills to prevent falls in community settings. Designed specifically for people who are at risk of falling, have a fear of falling, or have fallen. Workshops are led by trained facilitators and professional guest speakers including physical therapists, pharmacists, vision specialists, and community safety specialists. Stepping On workshops meet for two hours, once a week, for seven weeks. Workshops are offered in person and online. A small fee may apply.

Exercise and Physical Activity

Enhance Fitness: Group exercise program for older adults that use simple, easy-to-learn movements that motivate individuals (particularly those with arthritis) to stay active throughout their life. YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee | 414-357-2811

Moving for Better Balance: 12-week group exercise program based on the principles of Tai Chi.  Teaches eight movements modified for fall prevention.  The program works to improve balance, muscle strength, flexibility, and mobility to enhance overall physical health. YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee | 414-357-2811

Physical Activity for Lifelong Success (PALS): 10-week program for older adults who don’t exercise or haven’t exercised recently.  Sessions consist of group learning and an exercise circuit to help build strength, balance, and stamina.  The program includes 10 weeks of coaching sessions to facilitate behavior change and improve participants’ physical activity levels. Serving Older Adults of Southeastern Wisconsin | 414-704-3343

SilverSneakers: Fitness program for older adults that provides access to gyms, community exercise classes, and workout videos.  Promotes healthy aging through physical activity.  Program requires a medicare plan that includes SilverSneakers as a benefit.
- Find your location here: 💻 tools.silversneakers.com/LocationSearch and call to confirm if Silver Sneakers is currently being offered.

Stand Up & Move More: 4-week program to help older adults identify barriers and discuss strategies to reduce sitting time by moving more. 
- City of Greenfield Parks & Recreation | 414-329-5370
- Franklin Health Department | 414-425-9101 | See Flyer
- Gerald L. Ignace Indian Health Center | 414-383-9526
- Oak Creek Health Department | 414-766-7950

Strong Bodies: 10-12 week exercise program for men and women of all ages. Each class includes progressive weight training, flexibility, and balance activities. Milwaukee Recreation | 414-475-8180

Tai Chi & Ch’uan- This Chinese form of relaxation will teach stress-relieving techniques designed to release tension, improve flexibility, and relax your body and mind. Milwaukee Recreation | 414-475-8180

Walk With Ease: 6-week program to help make walking a regular habit, reduce pain and discomfort from arthritis, increase balance, strength, and walking pace, and improve overall health. Milwaukee County DHHS, Aging & Disability Services | 414-289-6352 | 💻 county.milwaukee.gov/aging

*These programs and resources are evidence-based and have been scientifically researched and proven to provide a reduction in falls and fall risk or for physical activity and exercise, which is a component of fall prevention. 

**Evidence-based programs are defined as those which offer proven ways to promote health and prevent disease.  They’re based on research and provide documented health benefits.  Please consult with your physician prior to beginning any type of physical activity program.

Non-Evidence-Based Programs

Community Education

Fall Risk Prevention Session for Seniors in Independent Living Communities: The goal of this session is to help seniors reduce their risk of falling. The objectives are to provide practical information and guidance that seniors can use in their home and community on a daily basis. Participants will learn about a wide range of tips and risk factors to help improve their safety. Right at Home | 414-877-1795

Fall Screens: Brief screening (medical and falls history, footwear, device use) and two simple balance/gait tests to determine the risk of falls and the possible need for intervention. Therapy at Home | 414-210-0088

Keeping Seniors Independent in Their Homes: Slide show presentation that focuses on fall risk and fall prevention.  Can be tailored toward independent home dwellers, in-home caregivers, and community caregivers. Therapy at Home | 414-210-0088

Understanding Falls in the Home: Senior Helpers | 414-228-4600

“You have the Power to Prevent a Fall”: 1-hour presentation where participants learn about fall risks and simple steps to reduce risk of falling. Effective fall prevention strategies and local resources provided. Froedtert Hospital | 414-805-8744

Work Smarter not Harder with FOX Rehab: Tools & Tips for Safety and Independence at Home: Presentation provided to community groups.  Offered by request. Fox Rehabilitation | 1-877 407 3422 | ✉ To request a presentation, contact Raigan Grane at raigan.grane@foxrehab.org.

Exercise and Physical Activity

Chair Flex & Stretch: Gentle approach to exercise to improve mobility, strength, and balance. Great for those with arthritis, this group exercise program was designed and modified to incorporate a series of movements and proper exercise techniques to help increase overall stamina. City of Greenfield Parks & Recreation | 414-329-5370

Exercise Class for People with Parkinson’s Disease: Join the therapists from the Froedtert & MCW Neurologic Rehabilitation Program for a 6-week exercise course for those with Parkinson’s disease. Froedtert Hospital | 414-805-3000

Fit and Fall Proof: 7-week progressive class for active agers that explores multiple dimensions of balance and mobility. Assess balance impairments, learn fall prevention strategies, and exercise to increase strength and mobility. Held at various WAC locations, but community members are welcome. Please call to find a location near you. Wisconsin Athletic Club | 414-427-6500

Balance and Stability: Moderate-intensity strength training class that focuses on joint rehabilitation, balance, postural alignment, and core stabilization by using a variety of equipment pieces. Use the “Complimentary Class Schedules” search function to find a location near you. Wisconsin Athletic Club | 414-427-6500

Yoga: 20 different types of Yoga classes offered for beginners to advanced.  Beulah Brinton Community Center | 414-481-2494

*These programs and resources are not evidence-based but may provide a reduction in falls or fall risk. *Non-evidence-based programs are defined as those where there has been no demonstrable impact through outcome evaluation or where the effectiveness is unknown due to a lack of outcome evaluation. Please consult with your physician prior to beginning any type of physical activity program.