Falls Prevention Awareness Week: YMCA Expert Available for Interview on Reducing Risks for Older Adults

Roanoke, VA (Sept. 18, 2025) — Falls are the leading cause of injury-related emergency room visits for older adults, the major cause of hip fractures and responsible for more than half of fatal head injuries. During Falls Prevention Awareness Week, Sept. 22–26, the YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge is encouraging older adults and families to take proactive steps to reduce risks. From Sept. 24–30, anyone (including active older adults) can try the Y for free.

“Fall prevention is critical because falls are one of the leading causes of injury among older adults,” said Betty Bridges, Wellness Director at the Kirk Family YMCA. “What often goes overlooked is that many older adults may downplay or feel self-conscious about their fall risk, so they don’t talk about it or seek help until after an incident occurs.”

Bridges says simple movements like sit-to-stands, step-ups, and practicing balance with a chair for support can make a big difference. At the Kirk Family YMCA, the Forever Fit class is designed to help older adults safely build strength, flexibility, and balance in a supportive group setting.

“In a group class, you’re not only improving your stability, you’re also encouraged and motivated by the people around you,” Bridges said. “That combination of physical work and community support gives participants confidence in their everyday activities.”

About Bridges

Betty Bridges is the wellness director at the Kirk Family YMCA. A veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, she later built a career in health and wellness with 13 years of experience teaching group exercise and five years in management as fitness operations director at Carilion Wellness. Bridges is certified in Les Mills programming and is passionate about helping people of all ages build strength, confidence and community through fitness.

Schedule an Interview

We’d love to connect you with Betty Bridges, who can speak about why fall prevention matters and provide expert insight on fall prevention. To schedule a live or recorded interview with Bridges please contact Ceci Leonard, (540)357-2500, [email protected].