Colorado Launched Statewide Fall-Prevention Summit

The state aims to reduce emergency room visits for older adults through a new summit and prevention coalition.

Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Senior Health

Bold vector editorial illustration showing a balance bar, shoes, and geometric blocks, representing stability and fall-prevention health initiatives. — Colorado officials have established a new statewide Falls Prevention Coalition and summit to reduce injury rates and support mobility among the state's older residents. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Would you participate in a fall-prevention program to help you remain independent?

Colorado has introduced a statewide summit and a Falls Prevention Coalition to address the rising frequency of injuries among older residents. The effort includes satellite events, such as a gathering at the UCHealth Memorial Administrative Center in Colorado Springs.

Why it matters

Falls are a leading cause of injury for older adults, and state officials are prioritizing these initiatives to decrease the high volume of fall-related emergency department visits. The initiative seeks to provide structured resources to help seniors maintain independence and physical safety.

Recent active surveillance at UCHealth facilities indicates that falls accounted for 58% to 59% of all emergency room cases over a six-month period. This high prevalence serves as the baseline for the state’s current public health intervention strategy.

The players

Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment

The state agency responsible for overseeing public health initiatives and hosting the fall-prevention summit.

UCHealth

A regional health system providing care across Colorado and facilitating local fall-prevention programs.

Falls Prevention Coalition

A statewide organization established to coordinate strategies for reducing fall-related injuries.

The details

The statewide initiative leverages the Aging With Independence and Mobility program, which utilizes the Four Cs plan to teach safety techniques. To build practical skills, UCHealth facilitates a four-week course where participants meet for one-hour weekly sessions to focus on balance and mobility.

September 22, 2026: Statewide fall-prevention summit held.

Health Landscape

Colorado’s new initiative aligns with broader efforts to integrate fall-prevention training into the standard of care for seniors. By utilizing the Aging With Independence and Mobility program, the state is moving toward a more unified approach to managing mobility risks.

If you are an older adult or caregiver, consider reaching out to local health systems to inquire about upcoming safety and balance programs. It is worth discussing your specific fall risk factors and mobility goals with your doctor at your next checkup.

The takeaway

The state has identified falls as a primary driver of emergency medical visits, making preventive education essential for senior safety. You can improve your stability by asking your physician for a referral to a mobility-focused program like those now being expanded statewide.