September marks National Fall Prevention Awareness Month, and several organizations, including the Yavapai County Free Library District and Yavapai County Community Health Services, are set to host “Stand Up to Falls,” a trio of events focused on reducing fall risks.

The series begins on September 5, running from 9 a.m. to noon at the Sedona Public Library. Subsequent events will occur on September 12 at the Camp Verde Community Library and on September 19 at the Cottonwood Public Library.

Participants will engage with Verde Valley Medical Center pharmacists to discuss how medications can influence fall prevention. The events will also feature insights from the Verde Valley Ambulance Company and Cottonwood Fire Department on home safety measures. In addition, attendees at the Camp Verde and Cottonwood events will receive fall risk screenings from the Arizona State University Lockhart Team.

Jailine Villalobos Rodriguez, Public Information Officer for YCCHS, emphasized the initiative’s community importance. “Stand Up to Falls serves as an opportunity for families to learn about fall prevention,” she noted. “Our goal is to provide practical information to help reduce the risk of falls and injuries.”

The Arizona Department of Health Services identifies that falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among residents aged 65 and older. In 2021, females aged 85 and older experienced a striking fall mortality rate of 359 deaths per 100,000 residents, with most incidents occurring in the home.

To combat this issue, Villalobos Rodriguez shared that the program includes Tai Chi classes, held at various public libraries. These sessions focus on strength and balance, crucial factors in fall prevention. Classes are tailored for all skill levels, making them inclusive for the community.

“Our Tai Chi for Arthritis and Falls Prevention classes are conducted indoors to ensure a safe environment for practicing fall prevention techniques,” YCCHS’ website details. These one-hour classes occur weekly for a duration of eight to 12 weeks. For additional information about these classes, visit healthyyavapai.com/tai-chi.