Join Sept. 20–24, 2021 for Falls Prevention Week, a nationwide effort to raise awareness that falls are preventable. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one-fourth of Americans aged 65 falls each year. Falls have also resulted in more than 3 million injuries treated in emergency departments annually. 

It seems like common sense — everybody falls, no matter what age. However, for many older adults, an unexpected fall can result in a serious and costly injury. The good news is that most falls can be prevented. The National Council on Aging provides a Falls Free CheckUp, which is a digital screener where older adults can answer 12 simple questions to get their falls risk score and steps to reduce their risk.

 Fall prevention tips: 

1. Exercise: exercise reduces the risk of falling by improving strength, balance and coordination. 
2. Eliminate clutter around the house 
3. Keep your home brightly lit 
4. If you need, use assistive devices 
5. Get regular health checkups