Learn how to prevent falls

Sept. 22 is National Falls Prevention Awareness Day. Why is that significant? You could be at risk for a serious fall and not be aware of it.

According to the Florida Department of Health-Bureau of Vital Statistics, in 2014 there were 56 deaths from unintentional falls in Manatee County and 70 in Sarasota County. During 2012 to 2014, there were 135 deaths from unintentional falls of residents 65 and older in Manatee County and 208 in Sarasota County. Further, the Florida Department of Health reports that the median admission charge for non-fatal fall injury hospitalizations in 2012 was $46,067.

Learn if you are at risk for serious falls and how to avoid them by attending the annual Manatee County Falls Prevention Coalition’s free community event 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sept. 22 at the Church of the Cross, 5051 26th St. W., Bradenton. Free balance assessments, eye exams, hearing exams, lectures and more are planned. Bring old/unused prescription medications for proper disposal by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Department. If you have any questions please call 941-747-9922.

This story was originally published September 7, 2016 at 1:13 PM with the headline "Learn how to prevent falls."