Donate 

Contact Us

Donate
Calendar
Café Menu

Falls Prevention Week at Vivalon

September 22-26

Explore classes and events crafted to boost your well-being and vitality at every stage of life. Whether you’re focused on improving balance and preventing falls or adding purposeful movement to your weekly routine.

View the Schedule

Falls Prevention Week at Vivalon

From Awareness to Action

Explore variety of classes crafted to boost your well-being and vitality at every stage of life. Whether you’re focused on improving balance and preventing falls or adding purposeful movement to your weekly routine.

View the Schedule

Explore

About >

Expert Speaker Series >

Schedule >

Client Story >

Messages From Our Instructors >

Donate >

Sign Up for Our Newsletter >

What is Falls Prevention Week?

Each year, more than a quarter of Americans aged 65 and older experience a fall.

Falls Prevention Awareness Week, observed during the first week of fall, is a national health campaign focused on raising awareness and promoting injury prevention among older adults.

Join us for a full week of activities dedicated to preventing falls and promoting strength, mobility, and confidence. 

  • By day, enjoy interactive workshops, free health screenings, and wellness classes. 
  • By night, don’t miss our Evening Speaker Series featuring leading experts in aging, brain health, and fall prevention. 

Daytime Activities

Free and Open to All

Drop by during business hours for hands-on workshops, wellness classes, and demos:

  • Health Screenings – Quick, informative checks from trusted healthcare partners
  • Classes & Demos – Learn practical tips to reduce fall risks at home and in daily life
  • Community Resources & Expert Advice – Connect with local professionals and get answers to your questions
  • Social Events – Enjoy fun, meaningful moments with neighbors and friends
  •  

No registration needed for daytime events.

View the Schedule

Evening Insights:

The Expert Speaker Series

Engage with leading voices in aging, brain health, and mobility during our special evening events.

Susanne Stadler

At Home With Growing Older

Monday | September 22 | 6:00pm

Register Here

Susanne Stadler is a social entrepreneur passionate about shifting the perspective on aging and an advocate for imaginative and human centered design solutions for the later phase of life.

In this compelling talk, architect and nonprofit leader Susanne Stadler will share practical and creative solutions from her design practice and from participants in workshops offered by At Home With Growing Older.

Discover how small, thoughtful changes can have a significant impact on your ability to age in place in your home with confidence and independence.

You will leave with a fresh perspective to find easy, low or no cost solutions to ensure that your home continues to be a place of joy, that is safe and conducive to the social interactions we all need.

Jeanette Leardi

Aging Sideways: Let’s Change How We Get Older!

Thursday | September 25 | 6:00pm

Register Here

Social gerontologist, community educator, writer, public speaker, and aging wellness leader who changes people’s perceptions about older adults and the aging process.

Evening Insights:

The Expert Speaker Series

Engage with leading voices in aging, brain health, and mobility during our special evening events.

Includes Q&A sessions and complimentary refreshments.

 

Registration Opening Soon!

Stay tuned for details.

Susanne Stadler

At Home With Growing Older

Monday, September 22 6:00pm

Susanne Stadler is a social entrepreneur passionate about shifting the perspective on aging and an advocate for imaginative and human centered design solutions for the later phase of life.

Register Here

Jeanette Leardi

Aging Sideways: Let’s Change How We Get Older!

Thursday, September 25 6:00pm

Social gerontologist, community educator, writer, public speaker, and aging wellness leader who changes people’s perceptions about older adults and the aging process.

Register Here

Valeria’s Story

Valeria joined Vivalon only a year ago. At age seventy-six, Valeria was finding it difficult to walk due to overwhelming pain from rheumatoid arthritis.

 

“I had been a champion athlete in my home country of Bolivia. As a young, strong athlete, I never imagined that I would find myself struggling to do the most basic tasks… Thanks to Vivalon’s health and falls prevention classes, I don’t live in pain anymore. I feel steady and confident. I leave class feeling light and energized—ready to live.”

 

This Falls Prevention Week, help Vivalon continue providing life-changing programs that help older adults live confidently and without fear of falling. You can directly support our health and falls prevention initiatives, ensuring that more seniors like Valeria can benefit from our services, by donating today.

 

Donate Today>

Valeria’s Story

Valeria joined Vivalon a year ago. At age 76, she was finding it difficult to walk due to pain from rheumatoid arthritis.

 

“I had been a champion athlete in my home country of Bolivia. As a young, strong athlete, I never imagined that I would find myself struggling to do the most basic tasks… Thanks to Vivalon’s health and falls prevention classes, I don’t live in pain anymore. I feel steady and confident. I leave class feeling light and energized—ready to live.”

 

This Falls Prevention Week, provide life-changing programs that help older adults live confidently and without fear of falling. You can directly support health and falls prevention initiatives at Vivalon, ensuring that people like Valeria can benefit from our services, by donating today.

Donate Today

From Our Instructors:

Tips, Advice, and Stories

Jane Rivera
Mat & Chair Yoga Instructor
"Breathwork and mindfulness play a huge role in helping older adults move more safely and intentionally thus preventing falls. By focusing on the breath and slowing down, students become calmer and more stable. "
Roberta Dillon
A Matter of Balance & Strength in Balance Instructor
"Do something every day. While watching TV, do hand, foot and toe movement or walk 10 minutes maybe two times a day, keeping the blood flowing and muscles moving."
Leela Satyendra
Tai Chi & Qigong Instructor
"Moving slowly helps you practice body awareness. If people leave the classes feeling calmer, that has so many benefits. Qigong is popular because it’s easier to learn than Tai Chi."
Jane Rivera
Mat & Chair Yoga Instructor
"Try various classes as an observer to see what is the best fit for you. Take classes aimed at older adults and beginners."
Roberta Dillon
A Matter of Balance & Strength in Balance Instructor
"Now is the time to nurture and be the best caregiver of ourselves."
Leela Satyendra
Tai Chi & Qigong Instructor
"A lot of people have fear. When people get a diagnosis like Parkinsons etc – you go to fear. Then denial. In these classes, and staff at Vivalon, everyone is so kind. People feel so welcome. It helps remove the fear."
Jane Rivera
Mat & Chair Yoga Instructor
"The one thing most older adults don’t realize about preventing falls is not knowing the statistics around falls and what they can do to take preventative measures now before the fall happens. For example, most falls happen at home, the bathroom is the most dangerous room of the house. Installing grab bars and no slip mats help.  Most falls are preventable."
Roberta Dillon
A Matter of Balance & Strength in Balance Instructor
"I have been exercising for many years and have become a ‘passionate’ believer and practitioner and discovered that I also love teaching and sharing the wonderful feeling, both mind and body, that I derive from movement. I discovered over the past 8 weeks that, although many have not been exercising they realize they are capable and make amazing changes to their body and thinking, 'YES I CAN.' And they do!"
Leela Satyendra
Tai Chi & Qigong Instructor
"One of the elements of falls prevention is to have confidence that your body will support you, and to have the strength. Another element of Falls Prevention is to learn to not rush. We all have a tendency to move fast. Tai Chi and Qi Gong teach us to slow down, move slowly, and actually recalibrates the nervous system."
Jane Rivera
Mat & Chair Yoga Instructor
“Every time we practice, it leaves us a little better then it found us.”
Roberta Dillon
A Matter of Balance & Strength in Balance Instructor
"The biggest challenge is building a feeling of confidence in your own body and having fun creating muscles and understanding the reason every part of our body works together from our toes to our ears... My running dialog is: breathing, hydrating, and having the investment of time with a sense of joy and gratitude."
Leela Satyendra
Tai Chi & Qigong Instructor
"Using the 8 brocades form – 7 movements, done mostly in place – studies with imaging of the brain show more activity in the brain to coordinate movement, resulting in smoother walking and movement, specifically with mild cognitive impairment."
Jane Rivera
Mat & Chair Yoga Instructor
"In every class, I assign this simple movement of daily practice.  It’s as simple as standing on one leg for 30 to 60 seconds, then stand on the other leg for 30 to 60 seconds. Do this 3 times a day, breakfast, lunch, and supper.  Do this in your kitchen with the counter in front of you for support.  It’s ok to hold the counter as you build your strength and balance. It’s the simplest easiest thing to do that gives results very quickly."
Leela Satyendra
Tai Chi & Qigong Instructor
"I see transformation. People come in closed up. After a month, they have opened up, they are talking, making friends. Also they are showing other people the moves – getting confident in the movements. One person who sat down for the entire class at first. Now, a year later, she is standing for the entirety of Tai Chi class and 80% of QiGong class."

From Our Instructors:

Tips, Advice, and Stories

Jane Rivera
Mat & Chair Yoga Instructor
"Breathwork and mindfulness play a huge role in helping older adults move more safely and intentionally thus preventing falls. By focusing on the breath and slowing down, students become calmer and more stable. "
Roberta Dillon
A Matter of Balance & Strength in Balance Instructor
"Do something every day. While watching TV, do hand, foot and toe movement or walk 10 minutes maybe two times a day, keeping the blood flowing and muscles moving."
Leela Satyendra
Tai Chi & Qigong Instructor
"Moving slowly helps you practice body awareness. If people leave the classes feeling calmer, that has so many benefits. Qi Gong is popular because it’s easier to learn than Tai Chi."
Jane Rivera
Mat & Chair Yoga Instructor
"Try various classes as an observer to see what is the best fit for you. Take classes aimed at older adults and beginners."
Roberta Dillon
A Matter of Balance & Strength in Balance Instructor
"Now is the time to nurture and be the best caregiver on ourselves."
Leela Satyendra
Tai Chi & Qigong Instructor
"A lot of people have fear. When people get a diagnosis like Parkinsons etc – you go to fear. Then denial. In these classes, and staff at Vivalon, everyone is so kind. People feel so welcome. It helps remove the fear."
Jane Rivera
Mat & Chair Yoga Instructor
"The one thing most older adults don’t realize about preventing falls is not knowing the statistics. For example, most falls happen at home, the bathroom is the most dangerous room of the house. Installing grab bars and no slip mats help.  Most falls are preventable."
Roberta Dillon
A Matter of Balance & Strength in Balance Instructor
"I discovered that although many have not been exercising they realize they are capable and make amazing changes to their body and thinking, “YES I CAN,” and they do!"
Leela Satyendra
Tai Chi & Qigong Instructor
"One of the elements of falls prevention is to have confidence that your body will support you and to have the strength. Another element is to learn to not rush. Tai Chi and Qi Gong teach us to slow down, move slowly, and actually recalibrates the nervous system."
Jane Rivera
Mat & Chair Yoga Instructor
“Every time we practice, it leaves us a little better then it found us.”
Roberta Dillon
A Matter of Balance & Strength in Balance Instructor
"The biggest challenge is building a feeling of confidence in your own body and having fun creating muscles and understanding the reason every part of our body works together from our toes to our ears."
Leela Satyendra
Tai Chi & Qigong Instructor
"Using the 8 brocades form – 7 movements, done mostly in place – studies with imaging of the brain show more activity in the brain to coordinate movement, resulting in smoother walking and movement."
Jane Rivera
Mat & Chair Yoga Instructor
"In every class, I assign this simple movement of daily practice.  It’s as simple as standing on one leg for 30 to 60 seconds, then stand on the other leg for 30 to 60 seconds."
Leela Satyendra
Tai Chi & Qigong Instructor
"I see transformation. One person who sat down for the entire class at first. Now, a year later, she is standing for the entirety of Tai Chi class and 80% of QiGong class."

Falls Prevention Week Schedule

Visit our Healthy Aging Campus to join FREE classes and activities all week long: 999 Third Street, San Rafael

 

Drop-ins welcome. No registration is required for the offerings below.

View our Calendar

MONDAY | September 22

Ready, Set, Heal: Surgery in 2025

Presented by Dr Ramon Berguer 

10:00am – 11:30am

Learn how to set yourself up for surgical success with the latest research on nutrition, exercise, and mindset before and after surgery. This presentation—led by Dr. Ramon Berguer, an experienced general and robotic surgeon based in Novato—will explore how to best prepare your body and mind, and how to support a smooth, effective recovery. Ideal for anyone anticipating surgery or supporting a loved one through the process.

Ballet Concepts for Strength and Balance Demo

1:30pm – 2:30pm

Build strength, coordination, and confidence through gentle ballet-inspired movement—no experience needed! This uplifting class, designed and led by Marin Ballet instructor Laurie Klein, supports balance, mobility, and creative expression in a fun and welcoming space.

TUESDAY | September 23

“Oops, to Up!” – A Fall Recovery Session

Presented by Kristen Waller PT, DPT 

10:00am – 11:00am

Join us for a hands-on demonstration with Krissy Waller PT, DPT, board-certified neurologic physical therapist, as she walks us through practical techniques for getting up after a fall. This empowering session will include modifications for different mobility levels, tips for practicing purposefully getting on and off the floor, and Q&A.

Free Health Screenings Event

1:30pm -3:30pm

Stop by for free health screenings and resources provided by trusted community partners. Students from Dominican University’s Occupational Therapy and Nursing departments will provide additional health checks and fall prevention tips. Hearing Life will also be offering free hearing screenings.

A great opportunity to check in on your health, ask questions, and connect with local experts—all in one place. Drop in anytime!

WEDNESDAY | September 24

When You Call, We Respond: What to Expect from the Fire Department

Presented by Battalion Chief Jason Hatfield, San Rafael Fire Department

10:00am – 11:30am

Learn what really happens when you call 911. In this engaging session, Battalion Chief Hatfield who oversees Emergency Medical Services (EMS) for the San Rafael Fire Department, will walk you through what happens when you call 911. You’ll learn who responds, what firefighters and paramedics do when they arrive, and how they assess and treat common injuries—especially after a fall. Chief Hatfield will also share real-life examples, typical questions paramedics ask, and simple steps you can take to prevent falls and stay safe at home.

Community Partners & Resources Event

1:30pm – 3:30pm

Drop by to explore a variety of local programs, services, and resources that support healthy aging and fall prevention. You’ll have the chance to connect with community partners, pick up helpful materials, and learn about opportunities available in the area. Just stop in, say hello, and see what’s out there to support your well-being!

THURSDAY | September 25

A Matter of Balance Info Session

10:00am – 11:00am

Curious about A Matter of Balance (AMoB)? Join our trained instructors for a friendly overview of this evidence-based program and how it helps reduce fall risk and build confidence. Whether you’re thinking about signing up or just want to say hello to familiar faces, this drop-in session is the perfect chance to learn, connect, and get inspired—no pressure, just great conversation.

Strength in Balance for All

11:00am – 12:00pm 

Usually offered by registration only, this is your chance to jump in! Get a feel for the core movements from our popular, evidence-based fall prevention program A Matter of Balance in this one-time, drop-in class—no registration needed. Whether you’re a graduate or just curious, come explore simple strength and balance exercises in a fun, welcoming space.

Tech for Falls Prevention Workshop

2:00pm – 4:00pm 

Discover how everyday technology can significantly boost your safety and independence. From medical alert systems to Apple Watch, Alexa, and Google Assistant, learn how these tools can assist in emergencies and support falls and injury prevention. This engaging session also explores balance-focused apps, showcases Gemini in action, and offers a glimpse into the future of smart wearables—all designed to help you stay confident and connected.

FRIDAY | September 26

You’re 90 – Now What? Let’s Talk About it 

Presented by Dr. Martin Terplan

10:00am – 11:30am

Join Dr. Martin Terplan—retired internal medicine specialist, former clinical professor of medicine at UCSF, and author—for a thoughtful conversation on what really happens as we age and what we can do about it. This empowering session explores the science behind aging, common changes in the body and mind, and practical tips for staying healthy, independent, and prepared for what’s next. Bring your questions and curiosity!

Yoga to the Rescue

1:30pm – 2:30pm

Build strength, posture, and balance in this gentle, all-levels yoga class with beloved instructor Jane Rivera. Known for her welcoming style and deep expertise, Jane will guide you through simple movements and calming breathwork to help support fall prevention and boost confidence. No experience needed—just bring yourself and a willingness to move.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

News, Classes & Events!

Become an Insider

Sign up to receive our bi-weekly Insider newsletter email and stay up to date on our latest offerings.

Sign Up for Insider
person icon

For more information contact us at:

[email protected] or 415-456-9062

Scroll to Top