September 18 – 22 recognized as Fall Prevention Awareness Week

Published on September 05, 2023

In an effort to help older adults learn ways to avoid a dangerous and common occurrence, the Weld County Area Agency on Aging (AAA) is recognizing September 18 – 22 as the annual Fall Prevention Awareness Week.

According to the National Council on Aging, Fall Prevention Awareness Week is a national health campaign centered around raising awareness about falls, injury prevention and developing an understanding that falls are preventable (NCOA.org). Falls are sometimes incorrectly seen as a normal part of aging, but by learning to do the right exercises, making their home environment safer, and getting regular health checkups older adults can take measures to stay safe and injury-free.

Each year, AAA provides a week of fall prevention tools, information, and activities. This year’s programming includes: “Walk With a Doc,” a brief presentation and Q&A session from Dr. Meara Melton followed by a casual walking session; “Caregiver: A Conversation on Fall Prevention,” a seminar for caregivers of older adults; “Tai Chi for Fall Prevention,” which teaches the art of gentle moving meditation to seniors; and “Chair Yoga,” a class for all fitness levels which is low impact, low intensity, and can improve focus, balance, and strength.

For more information on AAA’s Fall Prevention Awareness Week activities, including the full schedule and locations, residents are encouraged to contact Jacob Luna, Wellness Program Coordinator for the Weld County Department of Human Services, by calling (970) 400-6117, or by emailing at JLuna@weld.gov. To learn more about AAA’s programs and services, please visit https://www.weld.gov/Government/Departments/Human-Services/Area-Agency-on-Aging-AAA.