The Be Active Aging program Matter of Balance emphasizes practical strategies to reduce seniors fear of falling and increase their physical activity levels. 

A Matter of Balance is a lay led, train the trainer program conducted in a group setting. The program is designed to reduce the fear of falls, promote the view that falls are controllable, and promote exercise to increase strength and balance.

Recent studies indicate that unintentional falls are the leading cause of injury death among the 65+ population nationally. Approximately 35% of all seniors 65 and over, fall each year. This percentage increases as age increases. By 2020, the total cost of all fall-related injuries among the 65 and over population in the US will be approximately $43.8 billion.

In North Carolina, accidental falls represent approximately 25% of hospitalization. The average hospital stay is estimated at over $20,000.

Be Active North Carolina plans to launch a statewide pilot falls prevention program and evaluation study this year.