Older Adult

KNOW YOUR RISK OF FALLING

Do you know your risk of falling? Use the following tool to check your risk and talk to your provider:

Digital Tool: Falls Free CheckUp
Brochure: Stay Independent Checklist

RESOURCES FOR FALLS PREVENTION

CAREAPP is a Howard County Health Department (HCHD) program that connects County residents to community programs and services, including resources for food, health, housing, transportation, education, employment assistance, and more.

Please click the following link to access CAREAPP Falls Prevention Resources: Howard County Falls Prevention Resources

REQUEST PRINT COPIES OF FALLS PREVENTION RESOURCES

Falls Prevention Activities Flyer

Falls Myths vs. Facts

Office on Aging and Independence Falls Prevention Resources

Howard County Fire and Rescue Fire and Fall Prevention for Seniors

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Older Adult Fall Prevention

2025 FALLS PREVENTION ACTIVITIES

Falls among older adults continue to be a national public health concern. Falls Prevention Awareness Week is Sept. 22-26, 2025 and is a nationwide observance to raise awareness on preventing falls, reducing the risk of falls, and helping older adults live without fear of falling. Please check out and share the Falls Prevention events:

Better Balance:

1:00 PM Bain 50 + Center; 2:15 PM Ellicott City 50+ Center; Mondays and Wednesdays
9:00 AM East Columbia 50+ Center; Tuesdays and Thursdays
Join others with similar goals, and learn proper techniques to improve your balance under the guidance of instructors trained in the evidence-based Better Balance protocol.
*A pre-screening is required before enrolling.
To register, call 410-313-6073

Virtual Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program:

2:00pm, Tuesdays and Thursdays
Low-impact physical activity program for all fitness levels, led by a trained leader and proven to reduce pain and decrease stiffness. Includes cardio and light strength training exercises, as well as techniques to help support improved range of motion, balance/coordination, and relaxation. Performed seated or standing; no floor exercise necessary
To register, call 410-313-6073

September 12, 2025:

North Laurel 50+ Center Fall Prevention Class
10:30am, Friday
Location: North Laurel 50+ Center: 9411 Whiskey Bottom Rd, Laurel, MD 20723
Stay steady and strong! Come out and meet with a licensed physical therapist and discover how physical therapy plays a key role in preventing falls—especially for older adults. Learn practical tips, simple exercises, and you can improve balance, strength, and confidence. If class is showing as full online, please call the 50+ center front desk for availability, 410-313-0380.
To register, visit here.

September 22, 2025:

Shock Trauma Fall Prevention Class
11:00am, Monday
Location: Bain 50 + Center: 5470 Ruth Keeton Way, Columbia, MD 21044
Falls are the leading cause of admission to Shock Trauma, but they are not a normal part of aging. Taught by Shock Trauma expert, this class covers the essentials of fall prevention, tips for talking to your doctor, ideas for home modifications, strategies for medication management, and more.
To register, visit here.

Where can I get involved in programs for Aging Wellness Programs in Howard County?

Better Balance Classes:

This class is great fit for someone looking to improve their balance and mobility. This class has been proven effective for people with a chronic condition affecting balance or for those who feel unsteady on their feet. Class includes a couple walking portions with barre and seated exercises.

A pre-screening is required before enrolling. To be pre-screened, please contact Rachel Filar at 410.313.6073. This program is partially funded under Title III-D of the Older American's Act of 1965. Individuals 60+ are encouraged to make the suggested donation to ensure viability of the program, and those 59 and under pay the actual cost.

Available at the Elkridge Center on Mondays and Wednesdays at 1:00 PM. For more information or to register, please contact 410.313.5192.
Available at the Bain Center on Mondays and Wednesdays at 1:00 PM. For more information or to register, please contact 410.313.7213.

Interested in other programs to support your health and wellness? The 50+ Centers offer a wide variety of programming each day. Stay involved and have your local 50+ Center newsletter conveniently delivered to your inbox! Click to subscribe and get information on activities at 50+ Centers, Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) programs, and health and wellness offerings.

Check out the *new* OAI digital newsletter!

Senior Farmer Market Nutrition Program:

Looking for fresh, healthy food on a limited income? The Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) helps eligible seniors purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs at participating local farmers' markets. Supplies are limited, so apply early! Eligibility requirements:

Older adults aged 60+
Current resident of Howard County
Household income at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines

How to Apply:

Visit mda.maryland.gov to apply. For paper or translated applications, contact Danielle Clifford-Earles, Nutrition Program Manager, at 410-313-3506.

For additional information, please visit at https://www.howardcountymd.gov/aging

Where can I find Caregiver resources in Howard County?

What can I do now to support a healthy future?

How can I prevent falls and care for my health as I age?

Falls Prevention Conversation Guide for Caregivers- National Council on Aging
Maryland Falls Free Coalition
10 Ways to Love Your Brain - Alzheimer's Association
Health and Wellness Programs for Older Adults - Howard County Government