One in three community-dwelling persons over the age of 65 falls each year, and this number increases to one in two by the age of 80.  Fall-related injuries are often serious enough to result in hospitalization and even premature death; moreover, persons who fall often face significant declines in mobility and independence. 

There are a number of strategies to reduce and prevent falls among the elderly.  The Center for Healthy Aging has formed the Falls Free Coalition to oversee that these strategies are brought to scale.  The Center also provides a number of resources for those interested in falls prevention programming.