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

Falls Prevention Flyer

• Falls Myths vs. Facts (*Updated June 2024)

2024 FALLS PREVENTION ACTIVITIES 

Falls among older adults continue to be a national public health concern. Falls Prevention Awareness Week is Sept. 23-27, 2024 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:

Falls Prevention Activities Flyer  

Email LHIC@howardcountymd.gov to request print copies of the flyer.

Tuesday September 17th:

• 1:00pm at Ellicott City 50+ Center
• Revive Physical Therapy will provide tips on how to improve hip range-of-motion & strength as well as restore normal functional hip mobility
• Register here

Friday September 20th:

• 11:00am at East Columbia 50+ Center
• Are you at increased risk for falls? Do you want to age in place? If yes, join the Community Living Program for this informative presentation about how to descrease your fall risk and increase your home's accessibility.
• Register here

Monday September 23rd:

• 10:00am at Glenwood 50+ Center
• Are you at increased risk for falls? Do you want to age in place? If yes, join the Community Living Program for this informative presentation about how to descrease your fall risk and increase your home's accessibility.
• Register here

Wednesday September 25th:

• 1:00pm at Elkridge 50+ Center
• Kate Hernandez, DPT will provide information about the medical & mechanical systems our bodies use to prevent falls. Learn how to get up from the floor and what to do in various fall-related situations. 
• Register here

Thursday September 26th:

• 11:00am at Bain 50+ Center
• “Be Balanced”:  Contrary to popular belief, falls are NOT a normal part of aging. Regular Exercise with a focus on balance can help reduce fall risks. Join Fitness Coordinator, Michelle Rosenfeld, for this hybrid, pop-up class. Learn exercises that help improve your ability to perform routine Activities of Daily Living (ADL).

Friday September 27th:

• 1:00pm at Bain 50+ Center
• Falls Prevention: Assessing Balance with NovaCare Rehab. Afraid of falling? Not sure if you’re a fall risk? Join NovaCare Rehab to assess your balance and learn how to prevent falls. 
• Register here

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!

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