‘The Falling Monologues’ slated Saturday afternoon

DOVER-FOXCROFT — Art, like aging, is a universal force with the power to affect everyone. To help educate and inspire older adults about fall prevention safety, the Maine Highlands Senior Center (MHSC) and Thriving in Place (TiP) Collaborative have obtained “The Falling Monologues”, a script written by actress and scriptwriter Marilyn Faber for the University of Southern California’s Fall Prevention Center of Excellence in 2012.

Performed by members of the community to mark the 2016 Fall Prevention Week, The Monologues are an innovative collection of stories inspired by real life scenarios which cover common causes of falls and fall prevention tips, as well as other frequently overlooked issues including how crippling a fear of falling can become. Falling can change lives by increasing disability, isolation and depression. In fact, falls are the leading cause of injury, hospital visits and death from injury among people age 65 and older.

“People of all ages and activity levels fall at different times and under different circumstances,” says Dr. Lesley Fernow, geriatrician and president of the MHSC. “We want to move beyond the stereotype of the older adult who has “‘fallen and can’t get up’ toward a vision of healthy older citizens who can thrive and remain independent and engaged.”

Grounded in research, The Monologues takes a heartfelt and often humorous tone. “While falls are an important public health issue and not a laughing matter, adding a touch of comedy helps to balance the seriousness of the topic,” says Dr. Fernow. “We loved their creative approach to raising awareness.”

“The message of The Monologues and the key to healthy, productive and happy aging is to keep active, engaged and informed,” says Meg Callaway of the TiP Collaborative. “Falls are not inevitable. The Falling Monologues were developed to start discussions that save lives, and we are thrilled to have obtained the script and to be able to bring them to our region for this event.”

The team urges people of all ages to come to the free production at Center Theatre on Saturday, Sept.24 at 2 p.m. and at Friend of Fitness in Guilford on Oct. 5 at 11:15 a.m. in conjunction with the monthly potluck. Bring a friend or family member. Attendees will see friends or neighbors and are sure to have fun, learn how to prevent falls and start important discussions.