Abilities Centre is the recipient of a $25,000 Seniors Community Grant from the Province of Ontario. MPP Lorne Coe (Whitby) made the announcement on July 3 during a presentation at the world-class facility. The funding will support the
Falls Prevention Exercise and Education Program, helping local seniors stay active, build strength and reduce their risk of falls.
Abilities Centre's Fall Prevention offering runs eight to 12 weeks and combines small-group exercise with hands-on learning for seniors at risk of falls. Twice-weekly, hour-long sessions give participants practical tools to build strength, improve balance and stay independent.
Falls are a serious concern for older adults and the health care system as a whole. They affect up to 30% of the population each year and are responsible for 85% of injury-related hospitalizations and 95% of hip fractures. Programs designed by Abilities Centre play an important role in helping seniors stay safe, active and connected to their community.
"At Abilities Centre, we believe everyone deserves the chance to move, connect and live independently, at every stage of life," said Michael Cvitkovic, president and CEO of Abilities Centre. "This grant allows us to continue offering seniors in our community the tools and support they need to stay active, reduce their risk of falling and feel confident in their daily lives. We are grateful to the Ontario government for investing in programs that make a real difference for older adults in Durham Region."
"Seniors have made lasting contributions to our community, and they deserve opportunities to stay engaged, active and connected," said Lorne Coe, MPP for Whitby, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, and to the Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence, and Security. "These investments in Abilities Centre and the Regional Municipality of Durham will help reduce social isolation, promote healthy living and ensure more seniors can participate fully in community life."
The Seniors Community Grants are part of a province-wide investment of up to $7 million, supporting more than 320 grants that help seniors stay fit, active and socially connected close to home. Since 2018, Ontario has invested more than $40 million through more than 2,100 Seniors Community Grants across the province.
"The Seniors Community Grants Program is a great example of how our government is working for local communities," said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. "We are pleased to provide investments for so many services and activities that bring seniors together, learn new skills, get fit, and stay connected to their neighbours and friends."
More information about Abilities Centre's Fall Prevention Exercise and Education Program will be available in the coming weeks. Stay tuned to abilitiescentre.org for program details and registration.