#United States #Arlington #NCOA #Falls Prevention #Elderly Programs

NCOA's Innovative Approach to Falls Prevention for Older Adults

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) has embarked on an ambitious initiative aiming to enhance falls prevention strategies for older adults. Announced on June 25, 2025, this endeavor has selected 18 organizations to receive grants under the ACL Innovation Lab, with a goal to address the prevalent issue of falls among seniors, a concern that impacts millions across the United States.

Understanding the Background

Falls are a significant health risk for adults aged 65 and older. According to statistics, one in four older Americans experiences a fall each year, leading to serious injury and incurring billions in healthcare costs. Despite the well-documented risks, many existing preventive measures fail to address the unique needs of varied community demographics. NCOA’s initiative recognizes this gap and seeks to tailor interventions that reflect the realities and resources available to local organizations.

Grant Distribution and Goals

Each selected grantee will receive up to $290,000 over a two-year period. The purpose of these funds is to implement and test new falls prevention activities designed from a recently developed classification system. This flexible framework allows organizations to choose methodologies that suit their specific community dynamics, aiming to advance falls prevention programming innovatively.

Emily Nabors, NCOA's Associate Director of Innovation, highlighted the importance of adaptability in falls prevention efforts: "We've observed the positive outcomes of established evidence-based programs, yet it remains vital to explore new pathways that cater to varying organizational capabilities. This opportunity allows grantees to tailor their activities to their community's distinct requirements, building on current services in a sustainable manner."

Categorizing Prevention Activities

The activities funded are categorized into three core areas: physical activity, home modifications and assistive devices, and education and behavior change. Each category encompasses a range of interventions, from physical exercises that enhance balance to educational sessions on the effective use of mobility aids such as walkers and hearing devices. Moreover, addressing community concerns regarding mobility and falling are integral components of the program’s educational outreach.

Throughout the program's implementation, grantees will benefit from technical support to nurture their capacity to engage community members. This collaboration ensures that the strategies developed are reflective of the needs, interests, and values of those they aim to serve.

The Grantees and Their Commitments

Among the recipients of this funding are:

• - Bridge to Health NM – Espanola, New Mexico
• - Center for Better Aging – Chicago, Illinois
• - Chinese Information and Service Center – Seattle, Washington
• - Delta Health Alliance – Leland, Mississippi
• - Elder Options – Gainesville, Florida
• - High Country Area Agency on Aging – Boone, North Carolina
• - Live Healthy Little Havana, Inc. – Miami, Florida
• - Los Angeles LGBT Center - Senior Services – Los Angeles, California
• - Mac Inc Maryland Living Well Center of Excellence – Salisbury, Maryland
• - Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association – Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
• - Quality Insights Inc. – Charleston, West Virginia
• - RIPIN – Warwick, Rhode Island
• - Sticht Center on Aging and Alzheimer's Prevention – Winston-Salem, North Carolina
• - The Hebrew Home for the Aged at Riverdale – Riverdale, New York
• - United Church Homes – Marion, Ohio
• - United Community Center – Milwaukee, Wisconsin
• - University of Hawaii Center on the Family – Honolulu, Hawaii
• - VCU Injury and Violence Prevention Program – Richmond, Virginia

These organizations reflect a broad geographical reach and cater to diverse populations, all committed to addressing the paramount issue of falls among seniors.

A Step Forward in Falls Prevention

The importance of prevention cannot be overstated, and this effort by NCOA strives to build upon decades of knowledge in the aging network. By understanding what methodologies are effective and for whom, NCOA aims to create a solid foundation for future falls prevention programs. Ultimately, this innovative approach seeks to ensure that older adults can maintain their independence while significantly reducing the risks associated with falls. For more information and updates about their initiatives, individuals can follow NCOA through their social media platforms.

In a world where falls represent a leading cause of injury for our seniors, proactive measures are imperative for promoting health and confidence among older adults. The proactive steps taken now may pave the way for safer communities in the future.