September is Falls Prevention Awareness Month! The Falls Free Wisconsin Coalition, a statewide effort to reduce falls as we age, encourages us to add connection to our toolbox this September and beyond. Strong social connections help us stay active, supported, and mobile as we age.

Most of us feel lonely at some point in our lives, and for many people those feelings are temporary. People of all ages and backgrounds can experience loneliness or social isolation (meaning having little or no regular contact with others). As we age, the risk of loneliness and isolation can increase, and for many older adults, it can become a regular part of life.

Social connection, on the other hand, means having meaningful relationships and feeling like we belong, are cared for, and are supported. Strong social connections don’t just make life better, they also help protect our health and can lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, dementia, depression, anxiety, and even falls.

Here are some simple ways to stay connected and active, and help reduce our risk of falling as we age:

• Attend a community exercise class—and invite a friend to join you!
• Check in on friends or neighbors on a regular basis.
• Ask someone you trust to go with you to a doctor’s appointment for support and an extra set of ears.
• Try something new together, like using mobility tools like walking poles, or a new activity.
• Visit a congregate meal site to enjoy a healthy meal and connect with others.
• Turn shoe shopping into a social outing while choosing safe, supportive footwear.
• Help family or friends schedule important appointments like a medication review or vision check.
• Make movement social—walk, dance, stretch, or stay active together.

Small moments of connection can make a big difference. They help us stay healthy, confident, and steady as we age.

While falls are common, they are not a normal part of aging. If you have fallen, you are not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 1 in 4 adults aged 65 and older fall each year. Staying connected to the people and communities around us is an important way to stay strong, mobile, and independent.

Explore FallsFreeWI.org to find tools and resources, including a balance and strength exercise guide to try with a friend and more. You can also discover ways to build relationships and belonging at ConnectWI.org.