Improve Your Balance, Prevent Falls Resource Fairs to Address the Top Cause of Injuries Among Older Adults

Many people think falls are a normal part of aging, but they’re not. Most falls can be prevented. That’s why local organizations are coming together to hold “Improve Your Balance, Prevent Falls Resource Fairs” in Wausau and Merrill.

“There are proven steps individuals can take to help prevent falls and community resources that can help,” said Jennifer Clark of the Aging & Disability Resource Center of Central WI. “Sometimes older adults decline referrals to community resources because they’re afraid they’ll be forced to leave their home, but accessing community resources and taking steps to prevent falls can actually help people stay safely in their homes longer.”

Event attendees will complete a short fall risk screening upon arrival to help identify their individual risk factors. The screening tool will then guide attendees to booths with resources that can help address their specific risk factors. Booths will include experts in topics including balance and strengthening exercises, home safety, assistive devices, medications, vision, community resources, and much more.

“Our goal is that event attendees will increase awareness of their fall risk factors and turn that awareness into action,” said Amanda Tabin, Injury Prevention Coordinator for Aspirus Wausau Hospital’s Trauma Department. “Making safety a priority is key to preventing falls, staying independent, and continuing to enjoy your favorite activities."

Merrill Event Details: Date: September 16, 2025 Time: 9:30 a.m. – Noon Location: Merrill Enrichment Center, 303 North Sales St. (Parking/Entrance: Bierman Building/Expo Center) Sponsored by: Aging & Disability Resource Center – Central WI, Aspirus Health, Lincoln County Health Department, and Merrill Enrichment Center

Falls data from the Wisconsin Institute of Healthy Aging: Wisconsin has the highest death rate due to older adult falls out of any state in the country. Falls are the leading cause of injury-related emergency department visits and hospitalizations in Wisconsin and a top cause for EMS medical response calls. More than one in four older adults fall every year. Every 11 seconds an older adult somewhere in the United States (US) is admitted to an emergency department for a fall. More than 95% of hip fractures are caused by falling and falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBI). In the US, falls cost more than $50 billion in medical costs each year.