A free seven-week program that teaches older adults how to avoid dangerous falls launches August 4 at the South Salt Lake Senior Center, about three miles from the Millcreek border.

Stepping On, endorsed by the CDC and proven to reduce falls by about 31%, runs every Tuesday from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. through September 15. The program is open to adults 60 and older who live at home, have fallen in the past year, or worry about falling.

Falls are the leading cause of injury for Americans 65 and older. One in four older adults reports falling every year, according to the CDC, and falling once doubles the chance of falling again. In Utah, roughly 200 older adults visit an emergency department each week because of a fall, according to state health data.

The workshop is not just an exercise class. Each week, guest experts visit to cover a different piece of the puzzle: a pharmacist discusses medications that increase fall risk, an optometrist addresses vision, and a physical or occupational therapist leads balance and strength exercises. Sessions also cover home hazard removal, safe footwear, and navigating public spaces.

Each session is led by a trained health professional paired with a peer leader who shares participants' concerns about falling. After the seven weeks wrap up, the program includes a follow-up phone call or home visit and a three-month booster session.

The South Salt Lake Senior Center, at 2531 S. 400 East, is a Salt Lake County Aging & Adult Services facility that serves residents across the county, including Millcreek. The Mt. Olympus Senior Center in Millcreek is the closest county senior center to many East Millcreek and Canyon Rim residents, but this particular session is held at the South Salt Lake location.

How to register

Registration is open at compasshp.org/workshops/registration/18775 or by calling 385-468-3340. Residents can also reach Salt Lake County Aging and Adult Services at 385-468-3088 for more information about Stepping On and other fall prevention resources.