Many Vermonters are affected by falls.
On average, around 167 Vermonters aged 65 or older die every year from accidental falls. In 2024, the death rate from falls in Vermont was two times the national average.
Understand Your Risk
You may be at higher risk of falls if you:
- have fallen in the past three months, or more than once in the past year.
- have been hurt in a fall in the past year.
- Sometimes lose your balance or nearly fall
Reduce Your Risk of Falls
Falling does not have to be a normal part of aging. To reduce the risk of falling and help stay independent for longer, older adults can:
Maintain balance
- Stay strong with balance and strength exercises, such as Tai Chi.
Take care of vision & footwear
- Make sure your shoes fit properly and have good traction.
- Get an eye exam every year.
Make your home environment safer
- Remove clutter and throw rugs.
- Add non-slip mats and handrails.
Talk to your doctor
- Schedule your annual wellness visit with your doctor. Talk about issues with balance, trips and falls, or concerns about walking.
- Ask your doctor to review your medications and other factors that may increase your risk of falling.
- If you need a primary care doctor, use the Vermont Health Care Provider Lookup on the Vermont Access website to search for licensed health care providers in Vermont.
Age Strong VT a multisector plan for aging help Vermont become an age-friendly state.
Falls Free VT is a statewide coalition of organizations and individuals working together to lower the risk of preventable falls in Vermont communities. The mission of Falls Free VT is to reduce preventable falls and fall‑related injuries and deaths among older adults and people at higher risk. The work supports Vermonters in aging with dignity, confidence, and grace.
Statewide Resource Sharing
- Data and evaluation guide activities to support clear results and accountability.
- Shared planning and communication help reduce duplicate efforts across the state.
Public Awareness
- Connects Vermonters and healthcare providers with community organizations and helpful resources.
Education and Training
- A wide range of partners contributes many viewpoints and supports strong, community‑based solutions.
Interested in joining Falls Free VT? Contact the Falls Free VT Coalition for more information .
Additional Resources
Learn how to prevent falls
- Vermont Falls Prevention Guide - Information on facts about falls, free online tools, ideas for screening and assessment, and services available to Vermonters.
- STEADI resources for older adults and caregivers (CDC) - A collection of educational materials and tools in English and Spanish that organizations serving older adults can use to improve fall prevention.
- National Council on Aging fall prevention resources - The National Council on Aging Falls Prevention provides trusted information, safety tips, home checklists, and programs to help older adults prevent falls and stay independent.
- University of Vermont Health fall prevention resources - Falls prevention resources from the University of Vermont, including home interventions and fall risk assessments.
Talk with your doctor
- Annual Wellness Visit (CMS) - The Annual Wellness Visit is a free yearly checkup for people with Medicare Part B. During the visit, your doctor checks your health, including how well you walk, balance, and do everyday activities that can affect your risk of falling.
- Talking to Your Doctor About Falls - Use this guide from the National Council on Aging to help you talk with your doctor about falls, balance, and ways to lower your risk of falling.
Find fall prevention programs near you
- VT Area Agencies on Aging Falls Prevention Programming
- Northwestern Vermont - Fall Prevention Programs for Older Adults in VT (Age Well)
- Central Vermont - Exercise and Wellness Classes (CVCOA)
- Southwestern Vermont - Community Health & Wellness (SVCOA)
- Northeastern Vermont - Wellness Program (NEK Council On Aging)
- Southeastern Vermont - Health & Wellness (Senior Solutions)
Stay active and mobile
- MyMobility Plan (CDC) - The MyMobility Plan helps you stay safe, active, and independent as you get older. It helps you plan for changes in movement that can increase your risk of falls and car crashes.