aedrasteia
Purple Belt
- Joined
- Oct 30, 2006
- Messages
- 384
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I have just been informed that I will be instructing a self defense class for ladies next week. Now I have never seen this group but have been told the ages vary and that some may be using walkers. So my question is have any of you ever taught a class of elderly ladies or men that use walkers and what would you suggest for techniques? I know I will begin with a short talk on situational awareness and letting them know it is sometimes better to relinquish their belonging rather than to risk injury. After that I plan on going over some simple wrist releases but from their I am at a loss as to what to do. I realize that much may depend on exactly who shows up and what their physical abilities.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Shadowchaser
I'm glad you are willing to take this on - much good luck to you. I'll add what I've learned from these groups.
can you give some background?
* who gave you this on such short notice?? why so little time for you to prep?
* what is the 'group'? do they know each other? can someone brief you on the group members?
* how long do you have with these folks? one time only?
* where will you be - your location? Do you have the right situation for teaching people safely? floor pads? (what kind?)
support bars? Falling is a major danger here - hip fracture etc. also injuries to knees, wrists, shoulder and neck.
* will you have someone else with you?? would you be able to have a woman join you ?? - does not have to be MA.
very important to have additional person monitoring and helping with this age group.
*Overwhelmingly violence to elderly/senior women comes from known people NOT strangers:
family, partners, and care-givers and in-home helpers, even neighbors. All sad but all well-known.
Your plan for dealing with this reality?
* Some women in this group, just as is the case with every group of women, have already been
survivors of threats and/or violence. What is your plan for dealing with survivors (esp undisclosed
and unreported) in the session?
* They already know they are vulnerable and at risk. Some may be very reluctant to admit/show their fear
to a stranger - what is your plan for acknowledging/effectively using this response? How will you structure the
session to (recognize) and prevent them from being overwhelmed both emotionally and physically?
I've taught a full curriculum (4-6 weeks) for senior women in multiple locations (Illinois, Wisconsin, Florida, GA etc).
as well as shorter sessions and discussions. Its one of my favorite groups to work with and I'll be glad to offer all the suggestions I can.
Your answers to the items I've posted will help me share what I've learned and experienced. Many
thanks to you for being willing to help. with best wishes.