It was funny when Dick Van Dyke took a tumble over an ottoman during the opening credits of his show. Of course, he was a nimble youngster and a trained dancer, so his body did not take the brunt of the fall.

In real life falls aren’t funny. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are serious and costly for older adults. Falls are the leading cause of injury for adults 65 years and older. More than 14 million, or 1 in 4, older adults report falling every year.

Here are some facts about falls from the CDC:

• One out of 10 falls result in an injury that causes the older adult having to restrict their activities for a day or more or to seek attention from the healthcare system.
• There are about 3 million older adults annually visiting emergency departments due to falls.
• Each year, there are about 1 million fall-related hospitalizations among older adults.
• Nearly 319,000 older people annually are hospitalized for hip fractures.
• Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries each year. Many falls can be prevented by making changes that lower the risk, such as the following:
• Talk openly with your healthcare provider about fall risks and prevention.
• Exercise to improve your balance and strength.
• Have your eyes and feet checked.
• Make your home safer.

The Johnson County Area Agency on Aging partners with the Department of Health and Environment to provide A Matter of Balance and Walk with Ease programs. Both programs help individuals overcome the fear of falling and increase balance and strength. Contact JCAAA at 913-715-8861 for more information.

The city of Shawnee’s free Safe Senior Program helps residents stay safe in their homes. Available to Shawnee residents 62+ or younger if disabled, the program provides home visits to check for fall and fire risks. Residents receive safety tips and items like smoke alarms, bed rails, toilet seat risers and grab bars as needed. In 2025, falls dropped by 50% among participants, according to Deputy Fire Chief Corey Sands. Call 913-631-1080 to learn more or sign up.

Fall prevention assistance is also available from the CDC through the STEADI program. STEADI offers older adult fall prevention through online assessments and fall prevention tips. More information is available at cdc.gov/steadi.

Falls are no laughing matter, so take time to assess your risk and make changes to keep safe.