Anyone 65 or older beware.

Every 18 seconds an older adult is treated in an emergency department and every 35 minutes someone in this population dies as a result of their injuries, according to information provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Aging Research Institute and Pioneer Emergency Medical Alarms.

One-third of you will suffer a fall this year. Falls are the most common cause of nonfatal injuries and hospital admissions for this age group. Worse yet, in 2005, 15,800 people 65 and older died from injuries related to unintentional falls and 70 percent of these falls occurred at home.

Although we have one-in-three older adults suffering a fall each year, it is an unavoidable statistic. There are proven strategies that can reduce these chances and help you remain healthy and strong.

Risk factors that can increase your chance of falling include weakness and balance problems, chronic health problems such as arthritis or stroke, vision changes or vision loss, loss of sensation in your feet, inactivity as well as side effects or interactions of medications.

Hazards around your home also lead to falls so reduce the clutter, improve the lighting, and get the correct size and type of assistive devices as well as learn how to use them right.

So get active! Start an exercise program, like yoga, fitness training, balance training, etc.

Review your medication with your doctor regularly or when dizziness or blurred vision occurs. Have your vision checked at least annually or if you notice any changes.

Make your home safer by removing throw rugs, clutter, placing things within reach and adding grab bars in bathrooms.

The Greater Maple Valley Community Center is committed to helping seniors remain safe, active and healthy while maintaining their independence. We have decided to incorporate a new fall prevention program to our 50 plus programming. We will offer a free class each Monday and Friday morning that improves strength and balance. Linda Worley will be leading these 12 minute sessions starting at 10:30 a.m. Along with the “Fall Stop-Move Strong” class there are other fitness and strengthening classes offered weekly.

Spirit and Strength Yoga is also offered at 9:30 a.m. on Monday and Wednesday with some positions completed from a chair.

Other fitness and activities options include:

• Fit for Life – 50 plus senior fitness programs, another session offered in August.

• Divot and Dine – Beginning golf and lunch program offered in 4 week sessions.

• Wii bowling league – A new league beginning in the fall.

• Senior pingpong is offered each Monday afternoon at 1 p.m.

• Move Strong – fall prevention program, offered each Monday and Friday at 10:30 a.m. and free of charge.

For more information contact the Greater Maple Valley Community Center at 425-432-1272 or visit our Web site at maplevalleycc.org.