Residents at The Carlisle Naples Build Strength and Confidence Through Fall Prevention

Residents at The Carlisle Naples are taking a proactive approach to staying strong, mobile and independent through a weekly balance and fall-prevention class recently featured by WGC-TV.

The news segment highlighted The Carlisle’s ongoing efforts to help residents improve balance and strength—two important components of reducing fall risk and maintaining independence. Led by fall prevention specialist Chris Williams, the class combines targeted exercises with practical techniques residents can use both during class and at home.

For resident Yvonne Menard, the class became especially meaningful after experiencing two falls.

“I fell twice, right smack on my face, and I was very unhappy after that,” Menard shared. “So I said, ‘I’ve got to do something.’”

She now attends the balance class nearly every week.

Williams emphasizes that maintaining strength can have a meaningful impact on quality of life as people age. “For these guys to stay strong means they stay mobile,” he explained. “If they stay mobile, they stay independent.”

Since launching approximately four months ago, the fall-prevention program has become one of The Carlisle’s most popular exercise classes. Residents practice exercises designed to strengthen the muscles that support everyday movement while improving balance and stability.

Resident Natalie Lewis, who helped bring Williams to The Carlisle, has seen the enthusiasm firsthand.

“There’s talk after the classes: ‘That was great. I feel better,’” Lewis said. “And so it really is important, especially balance.”

Resident Mary Bradley has attended every week and says she can feel herself getting stronger. She also makes a point of practicing between classes—a habit Williams encourages among participants.

For those looking to work on strength and balance at home, Williams recommends beginning with a simple sit-to-stand exercise. Starting from a chair, slowly stand up and sit back down, taking approximately four counts in each direction. Tracking repetitions over time can provide an easy way to see progress as strength improves.

At The Carlisle, residents say the benefits go beyond the exercises themselves. The class offers an engaging way to stay active, learn new skills and build confidence in everyday movement.

“I come every Tuesday at 11:30. I get here early just to practice,” Menard said. “It’s a wonderful class.”

Through programs like fall-prevention training, The Carlisle Naples continues to create opportunities for residents to focus on their well-being while supporting the strength, confidence and independence to keep doing what they enjoy.

To view the WGCU Southwest Florida in Focus segment, use this link and start at the 20:25 mark: https://www.pbs.org/video/southwest-florida-in-focus-episode-355-august-24th-2026-q6zeen/

To learn more about The Carlisle Naples or book a tour, Click Here.