Fall Prevention Week in San Diego: Resources to Keep Seniors Strong and Independent

Fall Prevention Week in San Diego: Resources to Keep Seniors Strong and Independent

Falls are a top health risk for seniors, one of the leading causes of injury, loss of independence, and death. A simple slip can lead to injuries, hospital visits, or long recovery times. The good news is most falls can be prevented with the right support and resources. This year, National Fall Prevention Awareness Week runs September 22 through 26. Keep reading to find information about workshops, free screenings, and classes designed to build balance and strength. Experts will share tips about medications, vision care, and home safety. Home care providers can learn how to spot risks before they turn into real problems. Families will get tools to help loved ones feel secure while aging at home. Preventing falls is about more than safety; it’s about helping seniors stay confident, active, and independent in their own homes.

Why is Fall Prevention for Seniors Important?

There are five key reasons falls are so dangerous for seniors:

  • High risk of injury: Seniors are more likely to suffer serious injuries like hip fractures, head trauma, or broken bones from a fall.
  • Loss of independence: A fall can make it difficult for an older adult to live safely at home.
  • Slower recovery: Aging bodies take longer to heal, so even minor injuries can lead to long hospital stays or rehabilitation.
  • Emotional impact: Fear of falling often makes seniors limit their activity, which leads to muscle weakness, isolation, and an increased risk of future falls.
  • Healthcare costs: Falls contribute significantly to medical expenses, from emergency room visits to long-term care.

In short, preventing falls helps seniors stay safe, mobile, and independent for longer. San Diego home care providers are trained to notice and correct fall risks in the home.

Fall Prevention and Awareness Events in San Diego

  • Saturday September 20th: “Standing Stronger” workshop featuring presentations, sample classes, fall risk assessments, health screenings, exhibitors and more.
    • Where: Scripps Mercy Hospital 4077 Fifth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92103
    • When: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
    • Registration: email Vazquez.Pualani@ScrippsHealth.org or call (619) 686-3644
    • Questions: email Vazquez.Pualani@ScrippsHealth.org

 

  • Sunday September 21st: Palomar Hospital’s fall prevention information booth with individual fall-risk screenings by Palomar Physical Therapy staff.
    • Where: Palomar Hospital, Escondido, 2185 Citracado Parkway, Escondido, CA 92029 (Main Hospital Lobby)
    • When: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
    • Registration: Walk-in basis
    • Questions: contact Honda.McFadden@palomarhealth.org

 

  • Tuesday September 23rd:
    • Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla presents the Standing Stronger Fall Prevention Workshop featuring a presentation and exhibitors plus fall risk assessments, medication reviews, blood pressure and stroke risk checks. The event is free but spots are limited so be sure to register early.
      • Where: Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla, 9888 Genesee Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
      • When: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
      • Registration: email InjuryPrevention@ScrippsHealth.org or call (858) 626-6160
    • Sharp/Grossmont Healthcare District’s Fall Prevention and Balance Screening Event in La Mesa. “This event will have education presentations by Jennifer Hites, Injury Prevention Specialist, along with Sharp Memorial Hospital Trauma Services and Sharp Grossmont Rehabilitation Services. There will be multiple screenings, including balance screenings and wellness assessments. There will also be a raffle with a variety of prizes for those who participate in our passport program and visit each of the tables.”
  • Wednesday September 24: Fallbrook Regional Health District’s regular Wellness Wednesdays event on the topic Preventing Falls & Staying Strong with the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency. “Learn simple, effective ways to improve your balance, strengthen your body, and reduce your risk of falls at any age. This interactive workshop will equip you with practical tips and strategies to help you move with confidence and safety every day.”
    • Where: Fallbrook Regional Health District,1636 East Mission Road, Fallbrook, CA 92028
    • When: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
    • Registration: https://www.fallbrookhealth.org/wellness-wednesday
    • Questions: call (760) 731-9187
  • Thursday September 25: “UC San Diego Health and the Gary & Mary West Senior Wellness Center invite older adults to a fall prevention event featuring educational presentations, community exhibitors, and information-sharing to promote safety and wellness. Learn how to reduce your risk of falling and access local support services.”
    • Where: Gary & Mary West Wellness Center, 1525 Fourth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101
    • When: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
    • Registration: Not required
    • Questions: email traumainjuryprevention@health.ucsd.edu
  • Friday, Sep 26: Scripps Encinitas Rehabilitation Center presents Standing Stronger: Fall Prevention Workshop – Encinitas. “Attendees can take part in fall risk assessments, balance and gait classes, blood pressure and stroke screenings, and medication reviews by a clinical pharmacist. Explore community resources, tour our facility, and learn how to stay mobile and drive safely for longer. Don’t miss this opportunity to safeguard your health and independence — bring a friend or caregiver and take control of your fall prevention journey.”

Why Attend a Fall Prevention Awareness Event?

Whether they attend in person or join online, participants in National Fall Awareness Week events will walk away with practical ideas. Even small changes can make a big difference. Simple steps like better lighting or a balance class can protect independence. During National Fall Prevention Awareness Week, the best home care solutions are focused on helping seniors stay active, stay safe, and stay independent.

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