Ohio Department of Aging

10/15/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/15/2024 11:55

Ohioans walk more than 70 million steps in support of ODA falls prevention campaign

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Ohioans got their steps in this September, supporting the Ohio Department of Aging's 10 Million Steps to Prevent Falls campaign by walking 73,116,500 steps to raise awareness of older adult falls. That number beats out the step total from 2023 by more than 14 million steps.

"Every person in the state who took part in us surpassing our goal for 2024 deserves a huge thank you," said ODA Director Ursel J. McElroy. "By going over 73 million steps this year, our 10 Million Steps to Prevent Falls campaign helped people all over the state learn about how to prevent falls for themselves or loved ones.

"Older adult falls are a serious issue, with one in three people age 65 or older falling every year. We are happy to have outdone last year's step count, and we are looking forward to another successful Falls Prevention Month in 2025."

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 ODA's website.

Since its creation in 2015, ODA'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, 42 walking groups and 4,500 participants, walked a combined total of 29,246 miles in related events. That's the equivalent of walking the perimeter of Ohio more than 26 times, driving back and forth from Cleveland to Los Angeles more than six times, or flying approximately 12% of the way to the moon.

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 (1-866-243-5678) 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 for falling.
  • Obtain and use a cane or walker if you have trouble walking or standing for long periods.
  • Look around your home for falls risks, such as loose rugs, poor lighting, and clutter.
  • Have grab bars professionally installed in your bathroom.
  • Take a Falls Risk Self-Assessment.


2024 10 Million Steps to Prevent Falls Contributing Partners

  • Alzheimer's Association
  • Area Agency on Aging, PSA 2
  • Area Agency on Aging District 3
  • Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio, Inc.
  • Area Agency on Aging 5
  • Area Agency on Aging District 7
  • Allen Eiry Center, Inc.
  • Altercare Coshocton
  • Avita Walk-In Clinic, Shelby
  • Canton Regency Walkers
  • Central State University Extension
  • Cincinnati Tri-State Walk to End Alzheimer's
  • COM Together
  • Community Partnership on Aging
  • Direction Home of Eastern Ohio
  • Domiciliary Rock Stars
  • EDG, Inc.
  • Family Wellness Network
  • Forest Park Walking Group
  • Gallia County Walkers
  • Hamilton County Law Library
  • Holmes Health
  • InnovateOhio Platform
  • Noble County Walk to Prevent Falls
  • Ohio Department of Aging Staff
  • Ohio Health Care Association
  • Ohio Veterans Home Georgetown
  • Ohio Veterans Home Sandusky
  • Saber Healthcare Group
  • Soprema Senior Center
  • Tuscarawas County Fair
  • The Wilderness Center

About ODA - 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.