Important help for older adults: Falls Prevention Week, Sept. 19-23

Events taking place throughout Boulder County

Boulder County, Colo. - Boulder County Area Agency on Aging (AAA) is helping coordinate more than 40 events around the county as part of Falls Prevention Week, Sept. 19 – 23. A fall can have devastating consequences for an older adult. It is a common concern for the families, friends and caregivers of the aging. The explanation is simple:

• Every 11 seconds an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall.
• Every 19 minutes an older adult dies from a fall.
• Many older adults limit physical and social activities due to fear of falling  which in turn can lead to an increased risk of falling. 

The AAA, in conjunction with the Boulder County Partners for Falls Prevention, is offering this annual event to help educate area residents on the many ways they can reduce their risk of falling.

      What: Falls Prevention Week

      When: 40+ events from Sept. 19-23

      Where: Locations around the county. See the schedule of events.

With more than 40 activities offered at 19 different locations in the county, this is a great opportunity for an older adult to get their balance assessed, attend a talk or try out a class. Additional information can be found at bouldercountyfallsprevention.org.

One past participant said, “I have participated in this program in previous years and have learned new things each time!” Another reported, “I did learn how to get up if I do fall. I have fallen and had already planned to start an exercise class, but this provided more incentive.”

For more information for the event, contact Melissa Pruitt of the AAA at 303-441-3599, or mpruitt@bouldercounty.org.