by Erin Vallely, CANDLE Administrative Assistant
September is National Fall Prevention month. The awareness campaign focuses on education about ways to prevent people from falling down, particularly among older adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in four older adults fall down each year, and are the leading cause of injury-related deaths in this age group. Even if a fall is not deadly, people can get seriously injured which ultimately leads to a loss of independence, decreased quality of life, and substantial emotional and financial burdens. Here are some ways people can decrease their likelihood of falling:
- Removing tripping hazards like loose rugs, installing grab bars in bathrooms, improving lighting, and securing stair railings
- Engaging in regular physical activities that improve someone’s strength, balance, and flexibility to maintain muscle and coordination
- Getting regular vision and hearing exams helps ensure that people’s balance and coordination are being monitored and changes can be addressed right away
- Some medications can cause dizziness or impact balance so potential side effects should be closely monitored, and possible impacts mitigated as much as possible
Substance use, especially alcohol, is another contributing factor to the likelihood someone will fall. Drinking alcohol negatively impacts people’s balance, coordination, and judgment. It also makes it more likely for individuals to trip or stumble and get injured. According to data from CANDLE’s 2025 Annual Survey, 39.5% of older adults between the ages of 61-79 reported daily use of alcohol and 26.3% of people in this age range believed they should decrease the amount of alcohol they drink. Older adults are less likely than younger adults to be screened for substance use and overuse often goes undetected. This is why CANDLE is working with local service agencies to increase screening efforts and make prevention materials accessible to everyone of all ages.
To learn more or to get involved with the coalition, visit our website at candlecoalition.org.