OAKFIELD, Maine — On July 6, Candy Easton Gough held a Matter of Balance Coaches training at the Smoki Haulers Snowsled Club in Oakfield. Easton is the master trainer with the Aroostook Area Agency on Aging from Presque Isle.
Recent participants in the Matter of Balance training session were, front from left, Christie Corey, Robin Chambers, Brenda Lynch and Ruth Doughty; and back, Victor Han, Sarah Jackson, Jack Doughty.
(Contributed photo)
Previously, Ruth Doughty had taken the eight sessions of Matter of Balance when held in Oakfield at Pine Grove Terrace. She had expressed interest in being a helper for the program. Doughty and her husband, Jack, both took the all day coaches training and can now host groups. Recently retired, they are very much interested in opportunities to stay active and make a difference.
Victor Han said, “I like MOB’s holistic approach. Many, including myself, assume that MOB is a kind of exercise class. But, it’s much more than that. It concerns all faulty habits and home environments and mindset mentality. I can’t wait to open the class this fall here for the church folks and community. Many thanks.”
Christie Corey said, “Yes, I thought the class was very informative. I also think it would be a great class to take in preparation for understanding how to care for your aging parents.”
Bonnie Pratt stated, “Falls are not seasonal or partial to location, inside the home or outside in the community. Everyone can use extra caution in the winter, but some falls occur inside in the summer.”
If a participant takes a class and for any reason is unable to complete the eight sessions, the class is offered again, usually two times a year. Pratt said they typically contact that participant to see if they want to come to the group.
Recent participants in a Matter of Balance session are, from left, Fred Smith, Bonnie Pratt, Ruth Doughty, Kirby Hardy and Arnold Farrar.
(Contributed photo)
“Most people want to take a class three times, but we do have limited space,” she said. “A class of 8-12 is a very comfortable group. People are becoming very proactive about their own well-being, thus the growing program.”
Candy Easton Gough expressed the need for coaches and helpers. She is always looking for coaches to go into new areas that haven’t received services yet. She may be reached at 207-764-6185.
A group is being formed at Houlton Hodgdon Adult Education Community Center. Contact Adult Ed at 207-521-3100 ext. 5, email patricia.sloat@rsu29.org or visit www.rsu29-70.maineadulted.org. Houlton Hodgdon Adult and Community Education Center is located on 18 Military St., Houlton, ME.
