10/15/2026

HHS Announces $27.8 Million Investment in Falls Prevention Programs

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced up to $27.8 million in funding on Oct. 9 to expand falls prevention programs nationwide over the next three years. Administered through the Administration for Community Living (ACL), the investment will support early identification of fall risks, expand evidence-based prevention programs and improve coordination between health care providers and community organizations.

What You Need To Know

• Three initiatives funded: The awards support clinical-community partnerships, statewide expansion of prevention programs and national training and technical assistance.
• Evidence-based programs: Funding will expand the CDC's STEADI initiative for assessing fall risks and the Stepping On program, which addresses balance, strength, medication safety and home hazards.
• Funding recipients: The National Council on Aging received two awards, while eight organizations received funding to expand statewide prevention efforts. No Ohio-based organization was named among the statewide recipients.
• Why it matters: One in four adults age 65 and older experiences a fall annually. The investment supports prevention efforts that can reduce injuries, preserve independence and help nonprofit providers coordinate services with community partners.

What Happens Next

• Three-year implementation: Funded organizations will expand screening, referrals and community-based prevention programs.
• Provider resources: The National Falls Prevention Resource Center will offer training, tools and technical assistance to organizations implementing prevention programs.
• National coordination: Federal agencies will work together to expand access to proven prevention approaches and evaluate results.

What to Do

• Review current practices: Evaluate falls screening, risk assessments and referral processes within your organization.
• Explore available tools: Use the CDC's STEADI resources to support staff education and screening.
• Identify community partners: Connect with local health systems, area agencies on aging and community organizations offering evidence-based prevention programs.
• Monitor resources: Follow ACL's Falls Prevention Program for training and implementation assistance. The announced grants have already been awarded.

Read the full HHS announcement, including funding recipients and program details.