HCONRES 52119th CongressIn Committee

Supporting the designation of the week of September 22 through September 28, 2025, as "National Falls Prevention Awareness Week" to raise awareness, and encourage the prevention, of falls among older adults.

Introduced: Sep 26, 2025

Healthcare

Standard Summary

Comprehensive overview in 1-2 paragraphs

This concurrent resolution designates the week of September 22-28, 2025, as "National Falls Prevention Awareness Week" to highlight the serious public health issue of falls among older adults. The resolution emphasizes that falls are a leading cause of injury and death for Americans aged 65 and older, with approximately 14 million falls occurring annually, resulting in 3 million emergency room visits, 41,000 preventable deaths, and $80 billion in direct medical costs. The resolution aims to raise awareness about evidence-based prevention strategies and encourage collaborative efforts to reduce fall risks among seniors.

Key Points

1Approximately 14 million older adults (more than 1 in 4 Americans over 65) fall each year, making falls the leading cause of injuries and injury-related deaths in this age group
2Falls result in approximately 41,000 preventable deaths annually and 3 million emergency room visits
3The total direct medical cost of non-fatal falls is approximately $80 billion annually, with Medicare paying $53.3 billion, Medicaid $3.5 billion, and private/out-of-pocket sources $23.2 billion
4Many falls can be prevented through evidence-based strategies including exercise programs, medication management, vision improvement, home hazard reduction, and falls prevention education
5The resolution supports Federal investments in falls prevention programs and recognizes the collaborative work of government agencies, healthcare providers, community organizations, and individuals

Impact Areas

Older Adults (65+): Primary beneficiaries through increased awareness and prevention efforts that could reduce injuries, deaths, and loss of independenceHealthcare System: Potential reduction in emergency room visits and medical costs through prevention programsFederal and State Budgets: Possible cost savings for Medicare and Medicaid through reduced fall-related medical expensesFamilies and Caregivers: Reduced burden of caring for older adults who experience fall-related injuriesPublic Health Organizations: Recognition and support for ongoing falls prevention initiatives and community-based programs

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