Federal Grant to Expand Fall Prevention Programs for Older Rhode Islanders

The Rhode Island Department of Health has been awarded a $600,000 federal grant to expand fall prevention programs. These initiatives, aimed at older adults and individuals with disabilities in low-income households, will be rolled out in Woonsocket, Providence, and East Providence.

Partnering with local public housing authorities, the grant will fund evidence-based programs like A Matter of Balance and Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance, both designed to improve postural stability, strength, and overall body awareness. These efforts will help reduce the risk of falls, which remain the leading cause of injury and fatal injury among older adults, according to the CDC. With falls accounting for 19.6 out of every 1,000 Emergency Department visits in Rhode Island from 2016 to 2022, the importance of these programs cannot be overstated.  Fortunately, the state has maintained a slightly lower fall rate (25%) than the national average (27.1%) among older adults, but more work remains.

By addressing key risk factors, such as home hazards and lack of strength or balance, Rhode Island’s expanded efforts aim to empower older adults to maintain their independence and live safely in their homes. To learn more about other free classes and resources statewide, visit ripin.org