Falls Prevention
Every year, one in three Americans aged 65+ falls — and that risk rises with age. Falls can lead to injury, hospitalization, loss of independence, and even death.
Falls are costly — to quality of life and to our health care system. Each year, we spend $19 billion on medical care related to falls. And that's not counting family caregiving, home care, loss of productivity, and remodeling to make a senior's home more safe.
We lead the Falls Free™ Coalition, a national network dedicated to reducing the number of falls among older adults.
Alice & Paul's Story
After 67 years of marriage, Alice and Paul found they needed more than just each other to lean on. Paul was having trouble walking and was afraid of falling. See how a community program helped him regain his balance.
How We Help
- A Blueprint for Action
The Falls Free™ Coalition developed a roadmap for how to reduce falls among older adults. Congress used the plan as the basis for the Safety of Seniors Act, passed in 2008. Read what the plan recommends. - Funding for Falls Prevention
Millions of dollars and lives could be saved by funding proven falls prevention programs. The Falls Free™ Coalition is urging Congress to do just that. Discover how we're calling for change. - A Matter of Balance
This proven program helps older adults improve their balance — and combat their fear of falling. See how you can bring this program to your community. - Home Safe Home
The Falls Free™ Coalition and Home Safety Council identified 10 creative programs that reduce home hazards that lead to falls. Find out what works.
Resources for Older Adults
- What You Can Do to Prevent Falls
- Check For Safety: A Home Fall Prevention Checklist for Older Adults
- Brochures and posters in Spanish and Chinese
Quick Links
Find Resources
Connect with Peers
Events
Volunteers as Leaders: A Proven Model to Enhance Organizational Capacity March 11, 2010
NISC Pre-conference Intensive March 14, 2010
Senior Centers
Get resources to make your center the best it can be!
Ways To Help
Add Your Voice to Health Reform
Congress is hammering out a final bill. Get tips on how to write to your lawmakers about this critical legislation.
Make a Gift
For Older Adults
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Explore the Pros and Cons of Health Care Reform
View a presentation by NCOA President & CEO James Firman. -
Get Help Managing Chronic Conditions
Learn more about Stanford's Chronic Disease Self-Management Program. -
Medical Imaging Safety
If you have a pacemaker, find out what you need to know. -
Living with Shingles?
Learn how to cope. - Checklist: My Medicare Preventive Benefits
Discover what Medicare preventive services are best for you.
Related Content
- Physical Activity Resources
- Save the Dates: A Matter of Balance
- Program Seeks Applicants to Improve Care for Older Adults
- Prescription for Better Health
- Prescription for Better Health
- HABS: Evidence-Based Programs for Older Adults
- Motivating Participants to Be More Physically Active
- Recruiting and Retaining Effective Instructors for Physical Activity Programs
- Partnering to Promote Healthy Aging: Creative Best Practice Community Partnerships



