September is National Falls Prevention Awareness Month and as a result, local nonprofits are spreading knowledge about the danger of falls and how to prevent them.

Falls lead to nearly half of traumatic brain injury-related hospitalizations, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Falls can affect individuals of all ages and can happen at any time. Unlike other causes of brain injury, such as combat, motor vehicle accidents and near drownings, falls are not restricted to specific environments. This makes them particularly dangerous, says experts.

Agencies in the Northland that aim to help seniors stay healthy and prevent falls include Rebuilding Together Kansas City, Clay County Senior Services and Northland Shepherd’s Center.

According to the National Council on Aging, falls are one of the greatest causes of serious injuries and death among people over the age of 65.

“Exercising and moving regularly strengthens muscles and also helps to keep body parts flexible, which will minimize the risk of both falling and being injured by a fall,” reports the Brain Injury Association of America. “Review the side effects of the medications as some medications can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and other symptoms that increase the likelihood of falling.”

Experts also suggest avoiding uneven surfaces and keeping walkways clear of clutter and wires.

“Install bars or railings in areas where falls are common, such as stairs and bathtubs. Make sure the house and each room has ample lighting,” states the Brain Injury Association of America.

Rebuilding Together Kansas City suggests taking a safety survey to learn one’s fall risk at ncoa.org/tools/ falls-free-checkup. For more information about the services available from the nonprofit, visit rebuildingtogetherkc.org.

To learn more about Clay Senior Services, visit claycoseniors. org.