When you’re a child and take a tumble, the worst you might expect is a scraped knee or two and a serious blow to your pride.

However, it’s an entirely different matter if you are a senior citizen.  What is a simple fall for a child can have potentially deadly health consequences for seniors.  In fact, falls are the leading cause of injury to older adults, and the fear of falling can potentially limit a senior’s enjoyment of life.

In an effort to help older adults learn how to overcome their fear of falling, the Fullerton Senior Multi-Service Center offers InSTEP (Increasing Stability Through Evaluation and Practice), a free, 12-week program focusing on fall prevention.  The final class series is set to begin Monday, Sept. 14.

Seniors interested in learning more about the InSTEP program requirements and application process are invited to a special “kick-off” event, which will be held from 1:30-2:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 10, at the center.

The event will include guest speakers who will discuss the InSTEP program and other fall prevention resources and tools.  Refreshments will be served and prizes will be given.

While the program is free, pre-registration is required and may be completed by calling the Fullerton Senior Multi-Service Center at (714) 738-6305.

The Senior Multi-Service Center is located at 340 W. Commonwealth Ave., two blocks west of Harbor Boulevard, in Amerige Park.