By 1808Delaware
A one-mile walk at the Delaware County Fair will give older adults an opportunity to stay active while learning how to reduce one of the most significant threats to their health and independence. The Celebrate Falls Prevention Walk will take place Tuesday, September 22, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Participants will gather at the Delaware Public Health District Mobile Unit on the east side of the Merchant’s Building at the Delaware County Fairgrounds.
The walk will proceed at a welcoming pace for people of all abilities, with rest stops available along the route. Participants also will receive falls prevention information and have access to free assessments designed to identify their individual risk of falling.
A Common but Preventable Danger
Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among Americans age 65 and older. More than 14 million older adults, approximately one in four, report falling each year. About 37 percent of those who fall suffer an injury requiring medical treatment or limiting their activity for at least one day.
The consequences can extend well beyond the initial injury. Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries, and nearly 319,000 older adults are hospitalized for hip fractures annually. Falling once also doubles the likelihood of falling again.
Despite those numbers, falls are not an inevitable part of aging. Screening can identify risk factors, while regular physical activity, improved strength and balance, medication reviews and changes around the home can all help reduce the danger.
Free Admission for Senior Day
The walk coincides with Senior Day at the fair. Adults age 55 and older will receive free fair admission with proof of identification, making it possible to participate in the morning walk and remain afterward to enjoy the day’s exhibits, activities and entertainment. The 2026 Delaware County Fair runs from September 19 through September 26. Additional admission and fair information is available on the Delaware County Fair website.
No particular walking speed is required for the falls prevention event. Participants can complete the mile at their own pace, stop when needed and use the morning to take a practical step toward remaining active, confident and independent.
