Manley Calls Attention to Falls Prevention Awareness Week

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. – To help seniors stay healthy at home, state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, is highlighting tips for older adults to prevent falls during Falls Prevention Awareness Week. 

“Many falls happen right in the home, but thankfully, most falls are preventable,” said Manley. “Falls Prevention Week is an excellent opportunity for seniors to take time to make sure their homes are safe, and instill simple practices into their daily lives to help prevent falls and other injuries.” 

Manley is raising attention for Falls Prevention Awareness Week which is recognized from Sept. 20 through 24. According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), every 11 seconds an older adult is seen in an emergency department for a fall-related injury. Manley is sharing the following tips to help seniors prevent falls and other injuries:

• Find a good balance and exercise program.
• Talk to your health care provider to assess your risk of falling.
• Regularly review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist.
• Get your vision and hearing checked annually and update your eyeglasses. 
• Keep your home safe by removing tripping hazards and installing grab bars in key areas.
• Talk to your family members and enlist their support in taking steps to stay safe.

To learn more about the Illinois Department on Aging’s programs and services for older adults, call the free Senior Helpline at 1-800-252-8966 or email aging.ilsenior@illinois.gov Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.

“As COVID-19 cases continue to rise and we spend most of our time at home it is important that seniors make sure their homes are safe to help prevent falls,” continued Manley. “I encourage seniors and caretakers to implement NCOA’s helpful tips on preventing falls and other injuries.”  

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