By Beth Olson
Falls Prevention Awareness Week for 2025 is September 22-26. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services has released a report showing that in 2024, 21% of 911-related ambulance runs were for falls. Falls with broken bones can lead to long-term disability or even death. There are educational programs available to help prevent falls, which include information on topics like home safety (lighting, grab bars, rug removal), medication and alcohol use, vision testing, sleep, and diet and exercise. The Falls Free Wisconsin Initiative has resources for older adults, families, and caregivers to help keep people safe, healthy and living independently.
Extension at UW-Madison leads a program in Wisconsin that provides in-person and online classes, called “StrongBodies.” This program helps adults with strength, flexibility and balance-all important to prevent falls. Many of these classes also provide education on the topics listed above for falls prevention, including eating a healthy diet. Older adults need to get enough calcium and vitamin D, consume protein in all meals, and make sure they stay hydrated. The Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation has a guide to a “bone healthy” diet. It’s never too soon to start taking care of your bones!