10 Million Steps to Prevent Falls

“We look forward to September every year as a way to remind Ohio about the importance of older adult falls prevention,” said AGE Director Ursel J. McElroy. “Approximately one out of every three Ohioans will experience a fall this year, and we want to ensure that the older adults in our lives are aware of this risk. Part of our vision of making Ohio the best place to age in the nation includes educating every Ohioan on how to decrease the chances that they have a fall.”

Additional resources are available on the AGE website to educate Ohioans about the ways they can reduce their risk of falling, which includes paying attention to their home, their health, and their habits. Older adults can take an anonymous falls risk self-assessment on the AGE website to find out if they are at increased risk of experiencing a fall.

“The risk of serious falls involving injury increases with age and can significantly impact an older Ohioan’s independence,” said Dr. John Weigand, AGE’s medical director. “The best strategy for dealing with falls is to prevent them through a multidisciplinary approach of simple, safe exercise, medication, a review of medical conditions with a health care provider, and a safety check of tripping hazards in the home.”

10 Million Steps events provide Ohioans with an opportunity for exercise, and a chance to learn about local resources available to help prevent falls. Regular exercise is one of many things people can do to lower their risk of falling. Individuals, groups, and organizations interested in hosting a walking event or group can find planning guides and register their event at the 10 Million Steps to Prevent Falls webpage, www.aging.ohio.gov/10millionsteps.

In 2024, AGE recorded more than 70 million steps from its partners around the state. The 42 walking groups and 4,500 participants walked a combined total of 29,246 miles in related events. That’s the equivalent of walking the perimeter of Ohio more than 26 times, driving back and forth from Cleveland to Los Angeles more than six times, or flying approximately 12% of the way to the moon.

About AGE – The Ohio Department of Aging serves and advocates for the needs of Ohioans age 60 and older, as well as their families, caregivers and communities. Programs include home and community based long-term supports and services, as well as initiatives to promote health and wellness throughout the lifespan. Learn more at Aging.Ohio.gov.

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