Fall Prevention Programs Recognized as Colorado Programs of Excellence

The Violence and Injury Prevention (VIP) Programs of Excellence highlights sustainable and evidence-based programs that are being implemented around the state. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is recognizing the following agencies as VIP Programs of Excellence for their outstanding work implementing the evidence-based exercise and education classes and programs. These programs address older adult fall prevention :

• Gunnison Valley Health Hospital - Two hospital staff (Ginny Wolfe and Carla Fanciullo) are trained in both Stepping On and Tai Chi:Moving for Better Balance. They started their first Stepping On class Sept. 27 and they are planning to start the Tai Chi program within the next 2 months, partnering with the local community center. 
• Mt San Rafael Hospital - After getting three staff trained (Terri Coombs, Mike Fytte, and Yvone Romero) they started their first Stepping On class in August with 12 participants. They plan to run the next class in January 2017 and plan to run a minimum of two classes each year. 
• Aurora Fire Rescue started their first Stepping on class September 8 at Station 11. Cynthia Wells, from Community Relations,is working with University of Colorado Hospital staff to lead the classes. University Hospital is also holding Stepping On classes at Station 11, and has more planned for Nov and January. 

For more information on the Violence and Injury Prevention Program of Excellence or to nominate a person or agency doing evidenced-based work in this field go to the Violence and Injury Prevention Recognition page.

For more information on Older Adult Falls Prevention go to the Older Adult Falls Coalition website or the Colorado Falls Prevention webpage.