10 Million Steps Returns in September; ODA Requesting Partners to Host Walking Events

COLUMBUS, Ohio - The 10 Million Steps to Prevent Falls campaign, held annually by the Ohio Department of Aging (ODA) is returning for September 2024, and ODA is asking community partners to host local walking groups and events to raise awareness of older adult falls.

"We celebrate Falls Prevention Awareness Month every September, and we are excited to bring back our 10 Million Steps campaign as the centerpiece of that celebration in 2024," said ODA Director Ursel J. McElroy. "This year, you can support the older adults in your life by walking just one mile to help us raise awareness of falls prevention. We hope you will join us as we work toward our goal of educating every Ohioan on how to minimize their risk of falling."

Register to host a walking event or group here.

10 Million Steps to Prevent Falls is an annual campaign to encourage Ohioans of all ages to walk at least one mile during the month of September.

In 2024, the campaign vastly exceeded its goals as it saw Ohioans from across the state log more than 58 million steps, a total of more than 23,000 miles. That total is equivalent to more than 21 trips around Ohio's perimeter or 46 round trip drives between Cleveland and Cincinnati. All told, 41 walking groups and 10,294 participants contributed to the 2024 totals.

Besides providing Ohioans with an opportunity for exercise, 10 Million Steps events encourage the community to learn about other things they can do and local resources available to help prevent falls. Regular exercise is one of many things people can do to lower their risk of falling.

Organizations of all varieties can host walking groups or events: companies, senior centers, local health departments, local governments, hospitals and health systems, doctor's offices, community action organizations, schools, churches, service organizations, and even individuals.

Walking events are held at a specific time and location for individuals to gather and walk together. A walking group can consist of two or more individuals walking together or separately on one or more occasions.

Individuals, groups, and organizations interested in hosting a walking event or group can find planning guides and register their event at the 10 Million Steps to Prevent Falls webpage, www.aging.ohio.gov/10millionsteps. Events and groups that are open to the public will be listed on the webpage beginning in late August.

Approximately one in three Ohioans age 65 or older will fall this year. STEADY U Ohio is a falls prevention initiative, led by the Ohio Department of Aging and supported by Ohio government and state business partners, to coordinate and strengthen falls prevention activities around the state. Falls prevention tips and resources are available at www.steadyu.ohio.gov.

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.

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