The Grand Portage Elder program does more than offer nutritious meals. There are also lots of fun activities like the recent trip to the Bentleyville Christmas light display and Wisdom Steps events. And there are informative sessions like the recent Matters of Balance fall prevention class. Pictured here are the graduates of the class.
The Grand Portage Elders had a busy holiday season. In addition to their trip to Bentleyville in Duluth, they enjoyed a Christmas party at the Grand Portage Lodge on December 19. Rides were provided for those who needed transportation with a ride around the village after the party to look at Christmas lights. About 110 people attended the party.
The Grand Portage Lodge provided the food and music was by Portage.
The Elder Community purchased lovely poinsettias for the tables and the flowers, along with other gifts, which were given as door prizes. Funding for this event was from the food booth, bingo, and raffle at Rendezvous Days.
Elders also participated in an eight-week fall prevention class called Matters of Balance.
This class teaches participants how to prevent falling. The course is designed to reduce the fear of falling, stop the fear of falling cycle and improve activity levels among older adults. Matters of Balance
uses practical coping strategies, videos, exercises to improve strength and coordination and a home safety evaluation.
Director Patty Winchell-Dahl said this program has a 97% success rate for preventing falls for 12 months after the class. Class participants were Doris Blank, Millie Swartz, Marge Jamison, Ellen Olson, Vera Amyotte, Marie Spry, Dottie Griffith, Dorothy and Larry Peterson, and Mayme Swader. Instructors were Patty Winchell-Dahl, Jaye Clearwater, and Wisdom Steps Aide Carol Hackett.
Winchell-Dahl said she really enjoys working with the Elders. “They are very active and a terrific bunch of people,” she said.
For more about the Grand Portage Elder programs, call (218) 475-2655.
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