Welcome to September, where summer comes to an end and we see the first day of fall Sept. 22.

In concurrence with the start of fall is Falls Prevention Awareness Week, from Sept. 22 through 26.

This nationwide observance is designed to raise awareness on preventing falls, reducing the risk of falls and helping older adults live without the fear of falling. A common misconception about falls and fall-related injuries is that they are just a part of aging.

The reality is the causes of falls can often vary, but some situations can be avoided if we just plan.

Risk factors of falls include, but are not limited to, lower body weakness, chronic health conditions, poor nutrition, use of multiple medications, reduced vision, home hazards, weather and outdoor conditions, lack of physical activity and the fear of falling. You could easily prevent falls by focusing on the three Hs — home, health and habits.

In your home, look at each room and identify and correct hazards that can cause you to fall or trip.

By making healthy choices and discussing honest concerns with your health care professional, your risk of falling is significantly reduced.

Recognize that our bodies change as we age, so our habits should change accordingly.

Some common prevention tips we hear over and over, but still bear repeating:

Maintain physical activity. Engage in regular exercise that is designed to strengthen muscles and improve balance and coordination.

Make sure your home is safe. Remove loose rugs, clutter (yes even those laundry baskets) and electrical cords that are just lying out in the open. Install grab bars in the bathrooms, use nonslip mats in wet areas, and make sure the lighting is adequate so we can see the things we may have dropped or forgotten.

Unfortunately, falls have affected many aging Ohioans, and this is why the Ohio Department of Aging started the 10 Million Steps to Prevent Falls campaign.

During the month of September, throughout Ohio, walking groups and community events take place to bring awareness to this very serious issue. Not only does this campaign provide community members with the chance to exercise, but it encourages everyone to learn about other things they can do and the local resources we have available that prevent falls. Being proactive instead of reactive is one small way to avoid issues in the future.

On Sept. 26, Direction Home of Eastern Ohio will have a table setup from 8 a.m. to noon in conjunction with St. Joe’s at the Eastwood Mall to provide information about falls prevention and local community resources. We also will be counting those who walk and want to be a part of the 10 Million Steps to Prevent Falls campaign encouraged by the Ohio Department of Aging. Your steps will be included in the state’s numbers and bring awareness to this preventable issue while accomplishing something positive for yourself. We hope to see you there!