Falls in older adults are common, costly, and often preventable. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that implementing just one evidence-based program could prevent between 25,000 and 120,000 falls and avert upwards of $423 million in medical costs. Implementing more than one program could result in an even greater cost savings.

Evidence-based fall prevention programs offer cost-effective interventions that reduce falls and/or reduce or eliminate risk factors, promote behavior change, and leverage community networks to link clinical treatment and community services.

NCOA is urging Congress to allocate at least $10 million for older adult falls prevention funding to the Administration for Community Living, with a CDC appropriation of at least $4 million. This NCOA issue brief outlines the rationale for the $14 million in funding for falls prevention in FY22.