Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall. Behind that number are real people living with dizziness, instability, and the fear of falling—challenges that can rob them of confidence, mobility, and independence.
Falls are not an inevitable part of the aging process. With early detection and targeted interventions, many falls can be prevented. That’s the driving purpose of the Fight the Fall campaign, a nationwide initiative led by FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers in recognition of Balance Awareness Week (September 14–20) and National Falls Prevention Awareness Month.
A Patient’s Story: Regaining Confidence After a Fall
For Margaret, a retired teacher in her seventies, a sudden fall while gardening left more than just a bruised hip—it left her fearful of walking around her own home. “I stopped going to the community center and even avoided going outside unless someone was with me,” she recalls. That fear only made her weaker and more unsteady.
When Margaret attended a community fall-prevention screening, she discovered that her balance problems were linked to a vestibular disorder. With a personalized rehabilitation plan that focused on balance retraining, strength exercises, and vestibular therapy, she gradually regained her confidence. Today, she’s back to walking her dog each morning and tending her garden without the constant fear of falling.
Margaret’s story reflects what so many older adults face: the cycle of dizziness, loss of mobility, and isolation. It also shows what’s possible when fall risks are identified early and addressed with the right care.
Why Fall Prevention Matters
The statistics highlight the urgency:
- 1 in 4 adults over age 65 will fall this year
- Falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among older adults
- 95% of hip fractures are caused by falls
- Even one fall doubles the risk of falling again
Warning signs like dizziness, unsteadiness, changes in walking patterns, and even fear of movement often go unnoticed or untreated. Addressing these symptoms early through screening and education can dramatically reduce the risk of serious injury.
The Fight the Fall Campaign
Through Fight the Fall, FYZICAL clinics across the country are offering free events to bring awareness to fall risks and empower people to take control of their balance health. These community events are designed to educate participants, provide early screenings, and connect individuals with resources before a fall happens.
Event Highlights During Balance Awareness Week:
- Take the Single Leg Stand Test to screen for fall risk
- Receive a free balance screening and learn how to recognize early signs of imbalance
- Experience a Safety Overhead Support (SOS) System while navigating a balance obstacle course
- Access trusted educational resources on vestibular and balance health
- Connect with care teams in a relaxed, welcoming environment
These events unite healthcare providers, physical therapists, and community members with a shared goal: reducing preventable falls and supporting safe, independent living.
How to Get Involved
Participation is simple:
- Find a local event. Many FYZICAL clinics are hosting free Fight the Fall activities during Balance Awareness Week and throughout September.
- Get screened. Even a quick balance test can help identify risks before they lead to injury.
- Spread the word. Share fall prevention resources with friends, family, and neighbors.
Together, these actions help ensure more people stay safe, steady, and independent as they age.
If you would like to find a participating clinic near you, you can visit www.fyzical.com/locations.
