Scroll down to view workshop descriptions, schedules, and links to register.
Direction Home Akron Canton offers a variety of proactive Health & Wellness workshops that are designed to keep aging individuals healthier longer. How? By teaching them how to better manage their current diseases and symptoms, and reduce falls by gaining strength. Our programs offer innovative, evidence-based disease prevention/health promotion education with curriculums developed by a team of physicians, biologists, public health researchers and educators.
But the best part? All workshops are FREE and open to the public. Workshops are held either in-person or virtually on Zoom. Registration is required to attend (available in the workshop calendar details). For our upcoming class schedule, click our Workshop Calendar button. Or, keep scrolling to learn more about how to become a volunteer leader or host site.
Summit Co Residents: A select number of Summit County residents may be eligible to receive a free computer device for class participation. Recipients will be able to keep the device after a virtual Tai Ji Quan class concludes. (Virtual class requirements: a computer with speakers and a webcam (to ensure participants are safely learning the forms). To easily ask questions during classes, using the microphone on your computer is also recommended; there is a chat feature to type questions if needed. Room space should be a minimum of 10'x10' and free of any trip hazards (throw rugs, cords, pet toys, etc). A sturdy chair that does not roll or swivel.)
WORKSHOP | DATE & LOCATION (click on date to register) |
|---|---|
Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall PreventionTai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention helps people with or without arthritis to improve balance, both mentally and physically, helping to significantly reduce the rate of falls. Other benefits include improving relaxation, vitality, posture, and the immune system. Studies have shown that tai chi can reduce falls by nearly 70%. The program focuses on building confidence, which is linked closely to the reducing the risk of falling. 1-hour classes meet twice per week for 8 weeks and include:
Because the workshop gradually builds strength and complexity, it is recommended to attend a minimum of 12 of the 16 sessions. | November 18, 2024 - February 3, 2025 January 6 - March 4, 2025 February 3 - March 26, 2025 |
Bingocize
Bingocize is our newest evidence-based workshop that combines the classic BINGO game with exercise and information about nutrition, and/or falls prevention. Bingocize is led by a trained workshop leader twice a week (60 minute sessions) for 10 weeks. Win prizes, make new friends, and get healthy today! Because the workshop gradually builds strength and complexity, it is recommended to attend a minimum of 15 of the 20 sessions. Virtual Class Requirements: a computer with speakers, webcam, and microphone. Bingocize web-based app will be available after registration. | January 6 - March 19, 2025 CLICK HERE or call 330.899.5255 to register Quarry Ridge Apartments (1280 Cherry Rd. NW, Massillon) Mondays & Wednesdays 2:00-3:00 pm NO CLASSES: January 20th and March 12th Instructor: Lori Smith |
Powerful Tools for CaregiversPowerful Tools for Caregivers classes help caregivers take better care of themselves while caring for a friend or relative. PTC is co-led by two trained volunteer coaches who will share strategies to reduce stress and deal with the difficult emotions family caregivers experience. PTC meets once per week for 90-minutes over six weeks. Each caregiver will receive The Caregiver Helpbook as a helpful resource. Registration to virtual workshops will close 1-1/2 weeks prior to the first sessions to allow time to receive materials. To gain the most benefit from the information shared, it is recommended to attend a minimum of 4 of the 6 sessions. Virtual Class Requirements: a computer with speakers, webcam, and microphone. | New workshops coming soon - stay tuned! |
We are looking for Host Sites and Volunteer Leaders to help us share these programs! Is that you?
Choose either of our evidence-based workshops - Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention or Bingocize.
Benefits to becoming a Host Site or Volunteer Leader:
- New and fun ways to reach your older adult population!
- Direction Home covers the cost of leader training and class materials.
- Ongoing support from Direction Home.
- Compensation for Host Sites and Volunteer Leaders.
- Host sites can receive a one time $50 stipend for the use of their space and an additional $50 per workshop completer (participant attending a minimum of 75% of the individual sessions in a full workshop).
- Volunteer leaders can receive $50 for each session led in a full workshop.
CLICK HERE to request information about becoming a volunteer leader.
CLICK HERE for details and requirements for becoming a Host Site or Volunteer Leader.
Interested in attending, leading, or hosting any of these programs? Contact Lori Smith, Training Coordinator at lsmith@dhad.org or 330.899.5255 for more information.
Web-Based Education for Seniors and Caregivers:
Contact Theresa Niewiadomski at tniewiadomski@dhad.org for information about the Active Daily Living website.