It is estimated that in the United States one third of seniors over the age of 65 and one half of seniors over the age of 80 will fall each year, resulting in medical costs exceeding $27 billion annually. Most falls are preventable.

To highlight fall hazards and increase awareness about how to prevent and reduce falls, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has proclaimed the first week of Fall -- September 19-25, 2011 -- as “Fall Prevention Awareness Week.”

Fall Prevention Awareness Week Promotional & Educational Materials:

Governor Christie's Proclamation [pdf 2mb]
View the Governor's Official Proclamation declaring Fall Prevention Awareness Week in New Jersey.

Fall Prevention Awareness Week Press Release

Calendar of Events [pdf 39k]
This year there will be nine events around the state highlighting Fall Prevention Awareness Week.

Table Top Placemat [pdf 127k]
20,000 copies of this fun and educational placemat have been distributed to congregate meal sites and home delivered meal programs. If printing, we recommend using 11x17 sized paper.

Home Safety Checklist [pdf 76k]
A tool you can use to make sure your risk of falling in your home is reduced.

Home Safety Poster [pdf 387k]
This flyer asks you to find the tripping and fall hazards in a picture.

Fact Sheet [pdf 38k]
Facts and figures highlighting the physical and financial cost of falls.

Osteoporosis and Falls [pdf 120k]
This flyer details the link between osteoporosis and falls, and gives tips for improving bone health.

What Should I Do If I Fall? [pdf 51]
Just in case, the New Jersey Geriatric Education Center has suggestions.

My Falls-Free Plan [pdf 38k]
This checklist was designed for professionals but can also be helpful for those at risk of falls.

Health Matters Newsletter
In the department's September newsletter, there is an article on Fall Prevention Awareness Week on page 3.

Spotlight on EMS Newsletter
The Office of Emergency Medical Services' entire September 2011 issue is dedicated to fall prevention information.

Important Fall Prevention Links:

Medications and Falls [pdf 179k]
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Falls Information
National Council on Aging Fall Prevention Awareness Campaign
Osteoporosis & Falls Resources