Fall Prevention | High Country Area Agency on Aging

Falls are not an inevitable part of aging – yet they affect one in three Americans aged 65+ annually and remain the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among older Americans. Falls and fall related injuries are preventable. High Country Area Agency on Aging is committed to reducing the risks of falls through education, awareness, and community engagement.

Find A Program

View a listing of fall prevention programs and workshops available in North Carolina.

Find a program

Get Moving

You have the power to prevent a fall. Choose exercises that improve your strength and balance – like tai chi.

Get moving

Home Safety

Some of the most common falls are at home where you may have a false sense of security. Prevent falling at home with safety measures.

Make your home safer

Eyes, Ears, and Feet

Taking care of your eyes, ears, and feet can help prevent falls. Get annual screenings and update your eyewear or hearing aids as needed.

Act to get checked

Talk

Talk to a healthcare provider, pharmacist, family and friends. Discover helpful tips and guides.

Let's Talk

Get Involved

Learn more about getting involved with the High Country Fall Prevention Coalition.

Get involved

High Country Fall Prevention Coalition

The High Country Fall Prevention Coalition brings together a diverse network of community partners working to prevent falls and related injuries in older adults. Our success stems from strong collaboration and shared commitment to safety and independence. We believe that through education, physical activity, and clinical-community partnerships, we can significantly reduce their impact.

To learn more or join our mailing list, email wellness@hccog.org.

appalachian institute for health and wellness

Tai Chi

Tai Chi is a gentle, low-impact practice that blends slow, flowing movements with deep breathing and focused awareness. Often called “meditation in motion,” it’s also “medication in motion” for many – proven to improve balance, strength, flexibility, and even cognitive health.

Accessible to nearly everyone, including those with limited mobility, Tai Chi offers physical and mental benefits that make it especially valuable for older adults at risk of falling. That’s why High Country Area Agency on Aging supports the evidence-based Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention program, developed by Dr. Paul Lam and recognized by the CDC.

In partnership with Appalachian State University, we also offer memory-building sessions alongside Tai Chi classes in Watauga County during spring and fall semesters.

To find Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention classes in the High Country and throughout North Carolina, visit HealthyAgingNC.com.

Tai Chi Resources

A Matter of Balance

A Matter of Balance logo Developed by MaineHealth, A Matter of Balance is an eight-session program that emphasizes practical strategies to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels among older adults. Participants Learn to view falls and fear of falling as manageable through group discussions, peer support, and skill building. Click here to learn more about A Matter of Balance.

This is an entry-level wellness and fall prevention program for those who may be at higher risk, may need to engage in gentle activity first, and may have a fear of falling.

Learn more about A Matter of Balance