Rockville Centre seniors learn how to handle a fall

In recognition of the devastating effects of falls on the senior population, the National Council on Aging designated September “National Fall Prevention Month.” And during that month, the Sandel Senior Center, with cooperation from SportSet, was the recent setting for a two-part workshop — attended by over 50 members — designed to prevent or mitigate the consequences of falls, provide education about the reasons for falls and teach practical methods to actually get up off the floor, if a fall takes place.

Under the guidance of Bud Cosgrove, SportSet’s adult wellness director, participants had the opportunity to actually get down on the floor, on mats, to learn specific steps to enable just about anyone to get back on their feet after a fall. Along with a lot of good-natured camaraderie, valuable lessons were learned.

It did not take long for those lessons to be put to the test. Less than a week after the second workshop, a member who is over 90, and lives alone, told Sandel Center Deputy Director Chris O’Leary that she had fallen in her home. “I just kept picturing Bud in my head,” she said. “I did just what he said… turned over, got on my hands and knees, crawled to a chair, and got on my feet! Thank you for that class!”

In addition to providing concrete health benefits, this model program demonstrated the benefits that occur when businesses and service agencies combine for the good of the community. The members of the Sandel Center reaped the rewards of a successful community partnership between the Rockville Centre Department of Senior Services and SportSet. That partnership allowed the senior services department to expand the scope of its programs without expanding its budget.

Many opportunities for senior wellness and activities are available at the Sandel Center. Membership is available to those over the age of 60 who reside in Rockville Centre and the surrounding communities. For more information about Sandel Center programs and services, call (516) 678-950.