WAUKESHA, Wis. — Wisconsin has the highest number of fall-related deaths in the United States, in part due to a growing population of older residents, according to the Wisconsin Hospital Association.

But one program in Waukesha County aims to prevent falls by getting seniors to move better.

What You Need To Know

    • According to the Wisconsin Hospital Association, Wisconsin has the highest number of fall-related deaths in seniors
    • To reduce falls, the City of Waukesha is offering Ballroom Basics for Balance classes
    • The program is free for individuals 55 and older
  • Participants learn several ballroom-style dances, such as the Waltz, Merengue, Cha-Cha, East Coast Swing and more

Ballroom Basics for Balance offered through the City of Waukesha Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department provides free classes to seniors 55 and older.

The program introduces participants to several styles of dance, such as the Waltz, Merengue, Cha Cha and more.

Leading the classes is physical therapist Sue Gasparri. She said the classes are designed to improve balance, mobility, safety and memory. They also encourage seniors to be more social.

“It is so important to understand that when you are isolated and don’t have anywhere to go, anyone to talk to, you just… your world gets very small,” said Gasparri.

One of the participants is 63-year-old Sue Sullivan. She’s never taken a dance class until now.

“I have no sense of rhythm. And the whole idea of learning these steps while you’re moving, especially the transitions, is really hard. And I’m big on as I age, to do things that are harder for me,” said Sullivan.

Sullivan said stepping out of her comfort zone has also built confidence.

“I think as we age, we can get into a rut and I think a lot of times I find myself, ‘Oh, that’s old thinking.’ And I got to get out of that and just do new things and keep myself healthy,” said Sullivan.

Dancers are encouraged to take the skills they learn in the class and practice them at home, to continue strengthening their bodies.

Sullivan said she wants to get other people to join her in the classes.

“Challenge yourself, do something different. And it’s not nearly as scary as it seems like it is,” she said.

Gasparri said the best part is watching the participants let loose and groove.

“Getting people together to have fun makes them want to do it again,” said Gasparri.

You can register for the Ballroom Basics for Balance classes through the City of Waukesha’s Activity Guide online registration.