Mega Doctor News
As we mature, maintaining balance, flexibility and strength become essential to preserving independence and quality of life.
Unfortunately, falls among older adults are on the rise in the United States, threatening safety, mobility and overall independence.
Each year, over 3 million older adults are treated in emergency departments for fall-related injuries, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, resulting in roughly 1 million hospitalizations.
“As we age, the body naturally loses muscle mass and flexibility due to changes in metabolism, decreased physical activity and the gradual breakdown of muscle fibers and connective tissue,” says James Gratton, MD, an emergency medicine physician at South Texas Health System (STHS) McAllen’s Level 1 Trauma Center. “Without regular movement, muscles weaken and joints become stiffer, increasing the risk of falls.”
Through simple stretching exercises and balance-building techniques, older adults can improve strength, reduce the risk of falls and enhance their overall well-being.
“Incorporating stretching and balance exercises into a daily routine doesn’t have to be complicated,” says Faith Arredondo, DPT, Lead Therapy Manager, STHS McAllen. “Even simple movements done consistently can help improve strength, enhance flexibility and significantly reduce the risk of falls, allowing older adults to maintain their independence and overall well-being.”
In their commitment to helping prevent falls among older adults, STHS and Prominence Health will dedicate their final “Spring Into Action for Fall Prevention” monthly seminar to highlighting the importance of balance and stretching for those 65 and older.
Taking place on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., the seminar will offer Rio Grande Valley seniors valuable education on the role of movement in healthy aging, along with practical strategies to support strength, stability and overall quality of life. The session will combine hands-on education with preventive health guidance to help older adults stay active, safe and independent.
Participants will take part in interactive demonstrations of practical exercises designed to improve strength, balance, coordination and flexibility, key factors in maintaining mobility and reducing fall risk.
In addition, the event will feature level-of-care assessments, including gait checks, as well as an expo highlighting senior focused resources provided by STHS, Prominence Health and local community organizations.
“Preventing falls begins with building balance and improving flexibility,” says Tom Castañeda, System Director of Marketing & Public Relations, STHS. “By staying active and incorporating regular stretching, older adults can enhance stability, lower their risk of injury and continue living independently with confidence.”
No registration is required, and the event is free and open to the public. The session will be held in the Community Room at Prominence Health, located at 1700 S. 10th St. in McAllen. For complete details, visit the STHS Facebook Events page.
To learn more about fall prevention strategies, visit the STHS website at southtexashealthsystem.com.
