Course Dates

Course 1

  1. Friday, May 1 - 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM
  2. Saturday, May 2 - 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
  3. Sunday, May 3 - 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Course 2

  1. Saturday, October 3 - 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  2. Sunday, October 4 - 7:30 AM - (approximately) 3:30 PM

You’ll gain evidence-based strategies to improve older adult outcomes and lead impactful local fall-prevention programs.

This exclusive course, only offered by APTA Geriatrics, includes:

  1. Two in-person capstone weekends complete with hands-on lab work and a practical exam to earn your Balance and Falls® credential and 42 Contact Hours.
  2. Two in-person skills checks, portfolio assignments (case study, community analysis, and Otago Exercise Program certification)

Go beyond basics—gain advanced tools to improve outcomes and drive community fall-prevention change.

Pre-Course Work

  • Complete all preparatory work before arriving.

  • Participants will receive an email information packet with instructions 1 month prior to the course.

  • Preparatory work includes:

    • Assigned readings

    • Learning activities

    • Self-practice of selected standardized tests and measures

Skills Check (Before Course Start)

  • A skills check (tests and measures) will take place on Friday late afternoon/evening before the course begins.

  • Participants must register for a time slot in advance.

  • Register before making travel arrangements.

Course 1 Requirements

  • Successful completion of Course 1 is required, including:

    • Satisfactory performance on the skills check

Credential Portfolio (Between Courses 1 and 2)

The credential portfolio is a key component of Course 2 learning activities and includes:

  • Comprehensive clinical case study report based on a current patient/client

  • Application of Course 1 frameworks, including:

    • Screening

    • Assessment

    • Intervention reasoning processes

  • Community asset and gap analysis of:

    • Evidence-based fall prevention programs

    • Physical activity programs

    • Local fall prevention resources and services

  • Completion of the online Otago Exercise Program training

    • Cost: $49

    • If previously completed, participants may submit an existing certificate instead

  • Portfolios must be submitted several weeks before Course 2.

  • Detailed instructions will be provided during Course 1.

Course 2 Requirements

  • Successful completion of Course 2 includes:

    • Proficient performance on a skills check

Comprehensive Final Online Exam

  • To earn the Balance and Falls Professional Credential, participants must:

    • Pass a comprehensive exam covering material from Courses 1 and 2

    • Complete the exam within 6 weeks of finishing Course 2

Cancellation Policy

Requests for cancellation must be received in writing at least 7 days prior to the course start date. Registration fees will be refunded in full, less a $50 administrative fee.

In the event that the course should be cancelled by APTA Geriatrics or the host site, registration fees will be refunded in full. The Academy of Geriatrics will not be responsible for reimbursement of non-refundable airline or train tickets or hotel stays. Registrants will be notified of cancellation on or before 30 days prior to the course start date.