OLYMPIA -- In three years, the first 78 million baby boomers - people born between 1946 and 1964 - will begin their transition into retirement, kicking off a decades-long expansion in the number of elderly people living in America. The U.S. Census Bureau predicts that one in nine of them will live to at least 90 years of age.

To honor Washington's aging population, Gov. Chris Gregoire has proclaimed May as Older Americans Month. This year's special focus is on preventing falls, in line with the theme of "Working Together for Strong, Healthy, and Supportive Communities."

Nationally, a third of adults over 65 and half of adults 80 and older will fall each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In Washington, more adults 65 and older are hospitalized due to falls than people of all ages injured in motor vehicle crashes. Falls are the leading cause of death due to injury for adults over 65. Falls, as well as the fear of falling, can lead to depression, isolation, and loss of independence.

"Our nation will benefit in many ways from a larger population of healthy older adults," said Kathy Leitch, assistance secretary for DSHS' Aging and Disabilities Services Administration. "Helping them stay healthy and mobile is critical for their quality of life. They give back to and better our communities through millions of hours of volunteer, community and civic services."

The Department of Social and Health Services will collaborate with the Department of Health this year to launch a fall prevention program.

The two agencies will work together to create community networks that will:

• Distribute educational materials on preventing falls.
• Develop continuing education programs on fall prevention for medical personnel who work with older residents.
• Develop educational forums.
• Increase availability of exercise programs that improve strength and balance in older adults.

Washingtonians of all ages and backgrounds can celebrate Older Americans Month. Contact www.adsa.dshs.wa.gov for information on long-term care resources and educational programs in your area that promote community efforts to serve older adults.

Fall prevention tips

Research has shown that there are certain things that increase your chance of having a fall. Some of the most common risk factors are: muscle weakness and joint pain, poor balance, difficulty walking, poor vision, unsafe home environment, and certain medications that cause dizziness or low blood pressure. As your risk factors increase so does your chance of falling.

• Remember, falls are not a normal part of the aging process.
• Falls are related to the number of risk factors you have, so talk to your doctor and identify your risk factors.
• Many falls can be prevented. By making changes in your life you can reduce your risk factors and the chances for falling.

The four most important things you can do to prevent falls are:

1. Begin a regular exercise program.

2. Have your health care provider review your medicines.

3. Have your vision checked.

4. Make your home safer.

For more information on fall prevention, see the "Stay Active & Independent for Life" information guide at: http://www.doh.wa.gov/hsqa/emstrauma/injury/pubs/SAILguide.pdf

For information about local fall prevention and senior exercise classes, contact the local Area Agency on Aging's Senior Information and Assistance office. You can find the phone number in the yellow pages under Senior Citizens Services, or online at www.adsa.dshs.wa.gov, under "Find local services."