IL HJR0129

Declares September 22, 2018 as Falls Prevention Awareness Day in Illinois to raise awareness about fall risks for older adults.

Establishes that Illinois residents ages 65 and older account for 79% of fall deaths and 37% of nonfatal fall hospitalizations, with projected lifetime costs of $2.35 billion in 2014.

Urges older Illinoisans to prevent falls through six recommended steps: improve balance and strength through exercise programs like A Matter of Balance, consult healthcare providers about fall risk, review medications regularly, get annual vision and hearing checks, maintain home safety, and engage family support.

Recognizes the Illinois Falls Prevention Coalition (150 members statewide), Rush University Medical Center's federally-funded "A Matter of Balance" program (784 older adults enrolled, 79% completion rate), and University of Illinois at Chicago's $2.5 million ENGAGE-IL geriatrics training grant.

Commends healthcare professionals and communities implementing complete streets policies to create age-friendly built environments that accommodate safe mobility for residents of all ages and abilities.