About The Manatee County Falls Prevention Coalition
Who We Are
Why is falls prevention so important?
Why is falls prevention so important?
Since 2012, The Manatee County Falls Prevention Coalition has dedicated itself to reducing fall risks among older adults in Manatee County. We collaborate with healthcare providers, caregivers, and community organizations to promote safety and prevent injuries. Our goal is to enhance the quality of life for seniors through education, outreach, and preventative programs.
Why is falls prevention so important?
Why is falls prevention so important?
Why is falls prevention so important?
Falls are not a normal part of aging, yet they remain one of the most serious health threats facing older adults. Every year, more than 1 in 4 Americans age 65 and older experiences a fall, making falls the leading cause of injury among older adults in the United States. Many falls result in serious injuries such as fractures, traumatic
Falls are not a normal part of aging, yet they remain one of the most serious health threats facing older adults. Every year, more than 1 in 4 Americans age 65 and older experiences a fall, making falls the leading cause of injury among older adults in the United States. Many falls result in serious injuries such as fractures, traumatic brain injuries, loss of independence, and reduced quality of life. (CDC)
The impact of falls extends beyond physical injury. A fall can lead to fear of falling, decreased activity, social isolation, and a decline in overall health. Even when injuries are minor, many older adults become less active afterward, which can increase weakness, balance problems, and future fall risk.
Falls by the Numbers
National Statistics
- More than 14 million older adults report falling each year.
- Approximately 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older experiences a fall annually.
- Falling once doubles the risk of falling again.
- Falls are the leading cause of injury-related emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and injury deaths among older adults.
- More than 41,000 older Americans died from fall-related injuries in 2023. (CDC)
Florida Statistics
- Unintentional falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among Floridians age 65 and older.
- In Florida, 25.5% of adults age 65 and older reported falling within the past year.
- Nearly 3,850 older Floridians die from fall-related injuries each year. (America’s Health Rankings)
The Impact in Manatee County
Falls affect thousands of older adults throughout Manatee County each year and place a significant burden on individuals, families, healthcare providers, and emergency services.
Manatee County Snapshot
- More than 60% of trauma alerts in Manatee County are from a fall in an older adult resulting in traumatic injury.
- Manatee County is in the top 10 counties in Florida for people 65 years of age and older.
- Manatee County EMS and Fire Departments respond to hundreds of calls monthly for lift assists from falls in older adults.
These numbers represent more than statistics—they represent neighbors, friends, and family members whose independence, health, and quality of life have been affected by a preventable fall.
The Good News: Falls can be prevented
Research shows that many falls can be prevented through simple steps such as:
- Staying physically active and improving strength and balance
- Having medications reviewed regularly
- Scheduling routine vision and hearing checks
- Making homes safer by reducing tripping hazards and improving lighting
- Participating in evidence-based falls prevention programs
By working together, we can help older adults remain active, independent, and safe in our community