tia delivery day, and what a success it was! Thanks to a dedicated and energetic team, we organized the pick-up and delivery of nearly 700 poinsettia plants. Your hard work and enthusiasm made the day run beautifully. Way to go, Rotary flower power at its best! Thanks to Sheriff Stuhlreyer's creative enforcement, we raised an additional $197 for our scholarship program! Remember, these “fines” are all in good fun and serve a great purpose: building camaraderie and raising funds for our charitable efforts, especially scholarships. Let’s continue living out the Rotary motto, "Service Above Self," with enthusiasm, punctuality, and a healthy dose of Rochester pride and humor!
SPEAKER
Mandy Mullins, OPC Deputy DirectorA Matter of Balance
OPC 2025 Accomplishments
- 246,056 participants engaged in educational, arts, fitness, aquatics, and social programs supporting the physical, mental, and social well-being of adults 50+.
- 104,792 meals were prepared, served, and delivered over the last year, helping improve nutrition and reduce social isolation.
- 56,680 transportation rides were provided to medical appointments, dialysis, shopping, work, and to OPC itself.
- 37,104 visits were made to the OPC indoor walking track.
- 35,659 volunteer hours supported OPC operations, including Meals on Wheels.
- 8,834 supportive services were delivered through adult day services and five volunteer-run support groups.
- Additional volunteer support included loaning medical equipment, providing commodity food programs, counseling, and minor home repairs.
- With 120 dedicated team members, OPC continues to serve as the premier social and activity center for older adults.
About the Speaker
Mandy Mullins joined OPC five years ago, starting as the Fitness and Aquatics Manager and now serving as Deputy Director. She helped bring Henry Ford Health’s Matter of Balance program to OPC, which is now offered three times each year.Matter of Balance Program Overview
The program focuses on helping older adults:
- Reduce their fear of falling
- Understand how realistic their concerns are
- Recognize when fears may be limiting daily activities
- Learn that most falls are preventable, not an inevitable part of aging
Mandy emphasized that fear often keeps people from activities they enjoy. She offered practical suggestions, such as avoiding ladders when alone or considering maintenance-free living options. Even thoughtful gifts—like professional window washing or gutter cleaning—can help reduce risks.
Do’s and Don’ts for Fall Prevention
Do:
- Stretch and move frequently
- Keep your home well-lit
- Focus on a distant object when walking
- Lean into forces like wind
- Wear supportive, appropriate footwear
- Do balance and strength exercises daily
- Be patient and maintain a positive attitude
- Change what you can to reduce risks
Don’t:
- Stand up too quickly
- Step from a dark space into bright sunlight without pausing
- Wear sunglasses indoors
- Ignore concerns about dizziness or instability
Mandy encouraged participants to manage their concerns and adopt realistic strategies to stay safe and active.
Where to Start
If you’re unsure how to begin improving your balance:
- Join a class to learn simple movement routines
- Work with a personal trainer
- Ask your doctor about a prescription for physical therapy
- Explore options and find activities you enjoy—and stick with them
Daily Movement Recommendations
Aim for 30 minutes of intentional movement each day, incorporating exercises such as:
- Walking
- Sit-to-stand repetitions
- Head turns
- Ankle rolls
- Hamstring stretches
- Assisted push-ups
- Hip circles
- Calf raises
- Bridge exercise (lying on your back and lifting your pelvis)
These simple activities build strength, stability, and confidence.