National Falls Prevention Awareness Day is observed the first day of fall to promote and increase public awareness about how to prevent and reduce falls among older adults. Falls Prevention Awareness Day is September 23, 2011.

The National Council on Aging reports that falls are the leading cause of fatal injuries for Americans aged 65 and older. More than 18,000 older Americans die every year because of a fall, and the rate has risen dramatically over the last 10 years. The U.S. spends an estimated $28.2 billion annually on medical care related to falls; in 2008, falls were the leading cause of non-fatal injuries treated in emergency departments, with over 2.2 million older adults treated for fall-related injuries. For more information and ideas about how to participate visit healthyagingprograms.org.