Miller, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing National Fall Prevention Awareness Week

Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV) joined Representatives Lois Frankel (D-FL), Joe Morelle (D-NY), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), and Seth Magaziner (D-RI) in introducing a bipartisan resolution recognizing September 22 - 28, 2024 as National Fall Prevention Awareness Week. The resolution seeks to raise awareness, encourage the prevention of falls among older adults, and highlight evidence-based programs that help reduce fall risks and save the lives of seniors.

"It's no secret the U.S. population is aging, and it's important to ensure there are enough resources and education for seniors as they are more at risk of falling. By designating a National Fall Prevention Awareness Week, we are bringing awareness to this important issue that affects many of our constituents. I'm glad to join my colleagues in sponsoring this resolution to help prevent falls and protect seniors as they age," said Congresswoman Miller.

"With over 365,000 seniors in Palm Beach County, this issue is near and dear to my heart. Falls are the leading cause of injury among adults over 65. They can be debilitating, heartbreaking, and expensive, but the good news is they are preventable! This year, we're marking National Fall Prevention Awareness Week to spread the word that tools and resources are available to help prevent falls before they happen, ensuring our seniors can live with the safety and dignity they deserve," said Congresswoman Frankel.

"As our loved ones get older, we must ensure they have the resources and support to age in place safely, independently, and with dignity. Falls can be scary and have serious health consequences for older individuals. It's critical we do everything we can to promote fall prevention to help save lives and give seniors and their loved ones some well-deserved peace of mind. I'm proud to join my colleagues in support of this resolution, and I look forward to working with them to secure resources and support for older Americans," said Congressman Morelle.

"As someone who has experienced a fall that resulted in broken ribs, I am very familiar with the pain that often comes from a fall. The risks associated with falling are especially high for seniors over the age of 65. According to the CDC, 36 million seniors fall each year. Tragically, these falls result in 34,000 deaths and three million serious injuries that require an emergency room visit. The good news is that falls are preventable and do not need to be an inevitable part of aging. I encourage all seniors and their loved ones to learn more about how to stay safe and active by taking advantage of the fall prevention programs offered in their community. Local Area Agency on Aging organizations have wonderful resources that can help save lives," said Congressman Bilirakis.

"Falls can be serious-and even deadly-for older Americans, and Congress must consider this issue as seriously as we would for any other medical condition. Designating a National Fall Prevention Awareness Week will help bring attention to this critical issue and support programs that protect seniors, reduce falls and save lives," said Congressman Magaziner.

"The cost of falls among older adults is staggering: $80 billion/year, and untold suffering and pain. We welcome this Congressional resolution to draw attention to the fact that falls can be prevented. There are proven, cost-effective ways to reduce fall risk. We are grateful to Rep. Frankel for championing this issue and her steadfast leadership throughout the Capitol and across party lines," said Ramsey Alwin, President and CEO of the National Council on Aging.

The resolution is supported by the National Council on Aging (NCOA) and AARP.

Click here for bill text.

Background:

• Each year, 14 million older Americans experience falls, resulting in 3 million emergency room visits and 39,000 tragic deaths.
• Falls are the leading cause of injury for adults aged 65 and older, with non-fatal falls costing our health care system $80 billion annually.
• Seniors can reduce their risk of falling through basic home modifications, daily exercises, and other simple precautions.

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