The City of Medina America 250 Committee, in conjunction with the Cleveland Clinic Medina Hospital’s Fall Prevention Committee, are sponsoring a Fall Prevention Fitness Challenge for seniors 65 and over. Falls are the leading cause of injury and death among older adults, with nearly one in four seniors experiencing a fall each year. About 37% of falls lead to injuries that require medical treatment or restrict activity for at least one day, resulting in nine million related injuries each year. In 2025, Medina County had over 3,400 emergency department visits and 52 fatal falls for seniors over 65.
Common risk factors for falls include:
- Lower body weakness and balance difficulties,
- Unsafe home environments, such as poor lighting, clutter, or lack of grab bars,
- Medication side effects, including dizziness or fatigue
- Vitamn D deficiency, which can reduce bone density and increase fracture risk
Falls can be prevented through targeted interventions, including:
- Exercise programs to improve strength and balance,
- Home modifications, including non-slip maps, bright lighting, and grab bars,
- Medication review with healthcare providers to reduce fall risk, and
- Community-based fall prevention programs like this one.
Pick up a challenge card Medina City Hall, Medina Rec Center, Medina Hospital Information Desk in the Main Lobby, or Medina County Senior & Adult Services Center. Complete the listed activities for at least three weeks during the months of September and October, and turn the card in by October 30th to be entered into a drawing where 6 winners will receive a $150 gift certificate for new shoes at Second Sole.
There will also be a Fall Prevention Talk & Walk sponsored by the Fall Prevention Committee of the Cleveland Clinic Medina Hospital on September 24, at 10 am, at Ray Mellert Park. Registration is required for the walk, and will open soon! Be sure to check back!
If you have questions about falls prevention program in the community contact Christy: [email protected].