September is National Fall Prevention Awareness Month and the Yavapai County Free Library District, Yavapai County Community Health Services and several local organizations will be marking it with “Stand Up to Falls,” a series of three fall prevention events. 

The first will take place from 9 a.m. to noon on Thursday, Sept. 5, at the Sedona Public Library, followed by events Thursday, Sept. 12, at the Camp Verde Community Library and Thursday, Sept. 19, at the Cottonwood Public Library. 

“Learn how medications play a role in fall prevention with your [Verde Valley Medical Center] retail pharmacist from Northern Arizona Healthcare,” the event description stated. “Learn how movement and exercise impact our balance and stability. Verde Valley Ambulance Company and Cottonwood Fire Department will discuss steps to take to ensure your home is safe.” 

The Arizona State University Lockhart Team will perform fall risk screening during the Camp Verde and Cottonwood events. 

“Stand up to Falls is a partnership that we’re doing with [the] northern chapter of the Arizona Fall Prevention Coalition,” YCCHS Public Information Officer Jailine Villalobos Rodriguez said. “We created this event as an opportunity for community members and their families to learn about fall prevention. We believe this will be a valuable chance to share information, advice and practical tips to reduce the risk of falls and injuries.” 

The Arizona Department of Health Services recommends exercising, regularly reviewing medications, annual eye examinations and reducing hazards such as uneven surfaces to reduce the risk of in-home falls. 

“Falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among Arizona residents over 65 years,” ADHS stated for 2021. “Females 85 years and older had the highest fall mortality rate: 359 deaths per 100,000 residents. Most falls, 66%, occurred at home.” 

“[We] have tai chi classes where [we] go and I believe at some of the public libraries around the community,” Villalobos Rodriguez said. “They do strength and balancing movement exercises, and we have a few community resource fairs.” 

Villalobos Rodriguez said that these activities are designed to help older adults improve their balance and strength, which are crucial for fall prevention. The classes are accessible for participants of all skill levels. 

“Our Tai Chi for Arthritis and Falls Prevention classes are always held inside, where we can ensure a flat surface for emphasis on fall prevention moves,” YCCHS’ website states. “One-hour classes are held once a week for eight to 12 weeks.” For more information about the classes, visit healthyyavapai.com/tai-chi.