Falls are a major threat to the independence and quality of life of older adults. They are the leading cause of fatal injuries and injury-related hospitalizations among Hawai`i seniors, age 65 or older. Falls are not an inevitable consequence of aging. Falls are preventable.

To highlight this public health problem, the Injury Prevention and Control Program (IPCP) co-sponsored statewide conferences on fall prevention in Hilo in 2001 and 2003 and in Honolulu in 2004. Plans are underway to make the statewide conference an annual event.

The IPCP provides support and leadership to the Hawai`i Consortium on Fall Prevention. Formed in 2003, the Consortium provides organizations, professionals, caregivers, advocates, and interested individuals the opportunity to network, share information, and collaborate on projects that reduce the incidence and severity of fall injuries among our aging population.