Mega Doctor News
A simple misstep can have life-changing consequences for older adults. Beyond physical injuries, a serious fall can affect mobility, confidence and independence, making everyday activities more difficult.
For many seniors, the fear of falling can even lead to reduced physical activity and social engagement, impacting both physical and emotional well-being.
More than 14 million adults age 65 and older experience a fall each year in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, resulting in approximately three million emergency department visits and nearly 41,000 deaths annually.
While falls are common among older adults, many can be prevented through awareness, education and proactive safety measures.
“Falls don’t always happen because of one major hazard. Sometimes, it’s a combination of small changes in a person’s health and surroundings that increase their risk,” says James Gratton, MD, an emergency medicine physician at the South Texas Health System (STHS) McAllen Level I Trauma Center. ” Being aware of changes in vision, balance, strength or reaction time, along with potential hazards around the home, can make a difference in preventing a serious injury.”
To help older adults maintain their independence and reduce their risk of falls, South Texas Health System and Prominence Health have partnered to present the Staying S.A.F.E. from Falls conference series.
The initiative provides seniors and caregivers with practical fall-prevention strategies, valuable health resources and access to community support services.
Following successful events in Weslaco and McAllen, the traveling series will make its next stop in Mission before continuing to Rio Grande City.
“Preventing falls starts with understanding what puts you at risk and knowing what you can do about it,” says Faith Arredondo, DPT, Lead Therapy Manager, STHS McAllen. ” Even small adjustments to daily habits and living spaces can help older adults feel more confident, remain active and continue enjoying the activities they love.”
Presented by the STHS McAllen Trauma Department in collaboration with inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation specialists, the conference will feature healthcare professionals discussing a variety of topics related to fall prevention and healthy aging.
The next Staying S.A.F.E. from Falls conference will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce, located at 202 W. Tom Landry St. in Mission.
Attendees will learn how regular physical activity, balance and strength training, medication management and home safety modifications can help reduce the risk of falls and support long-term independence.
In addition to educational presentations, participants will have access to free health screenings, including gait and balance assessments, as well as a community resource expo featuring senior-focused programs and services from STHS, Prominence Health and local organizations.
No registration is required. The conference is free and open to the public.
For additional information, visit the STHS Facebook Events page. To learn more about fall prevention and healthy aging resources, visit southtexashealthsystem.com.
Who: South Texas Health System & Prominence Health
What: Staying S.A.F.E. from Falls: Fall Prevention Conference
Where: The Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce
202 W. Tom Landry St.
Mission, TX 78572
When:Wednesday, November 18, 2026, 10:00 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.
