Ohioans walk more than 77 million steps to help prevent falls

Ohioans got their steps in this September, supporting the Ohio Department of Aging’s (AGE) 10 Million Steps to Prevent Falls campaign by walking 77,096,000 steps to raise awareness of older adult falls. That number beats out the step total from 2024 by more than 3,979,500 steps, or nearly four million steps.

“We want to thank every person who helped us surpass our goal for 2025,” AGE director Ursel J. McElroy said. “Every step contributed to our 10 Million Steps to Prevent Falls campaign helps people across Ohio learn about how to prevent falls for themselves or loved ones.”

“Older adult falls are a serious issue, leading to a loss of independence, and may even result in significant injury or loss of life,” McElroy said. “We’re encouraged that we surpassed last year’s step count, and we are looking forward to another successful Falls Prevention Month in 2026.”

Falls are not considered a normal part of aging, but they are the leading cause of injury among older Ohioans. Most falls, however, can be prevented. Regular exercise, like walking 15-30 minutes each day, is one of the many ways people can lower their risk. Ohioans can also take measures in their own homes to prevent falls. Learn more about Falls Prevention on AGE’s website, https://aging.ohio.gov/.

Since its creation in 2015, AGE’s 10 Million Steps to Prevent Falls campaign has been held during Falls Prevention Month in September to encourage Ohioans of all ages to walk at least one mile, either in a group or as an individual, for valuable exercise and as an opportunity to learn about other things they can do and local resources available to help prevent falls.

This year, 35 walking groups and 8,456 participants walked a combined total of 30,838.4 miles in related events, and 30,000 miles is roughly the equivalent of a road trip across the U.S. 10 times. The driving distance from New York to Los Angeles is about 2,800 miles, so 30,000 miles is like making that cross-country trip 10 times.

Tips to prevent falls:

• Get at least 15 minutes of simple exercise, like walking, each day.
• Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated.
• Contact your local area agency on aging at 419-382-0624 to learn about balance and exercise programs in your community.
• Ask your doctor or other health care provider for a falls risk assessment, including a review of whether any of the medications you take may increase your risk of falling.
• Obtain and use a cane or walker if you have trouble walking or standing for long periods.
• Look around your home for fall risks, such as loose rugs, poor lighting, and clutter.
• Have grab bars professionally installed in your bathroom.
• Take a Fall Risk Self-Assessment online at aging.ohio.gov/care-and-living/health-and-safety/fall-prevention/fall-risk-self-assessment-1.

The Ohio Department of Aging serves and advocates for the needs of Ohioans age 60 and older, as well as their families, caregivers, and communities. Programs include home and community-based long-term supports and services, as well as initiatives to promote health and wellness throughout the lifespan. Visit www.aging.ohio.gov for more details.