Don’t let a fear of falls hold you back

Did you know that one in four older Americans falls every year? Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries for people over the age of 65. These startling statistics are why the National Council on Aging (NCOA) has deemed September 18-24 as Falls Prevention Week the YMCA of Coastal Carolina is asking older adults, caregivers, family members and health care professionals in Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island, and Georgetown to join us in raising awareness to prevent falls among older adults.

Falling and fear of falling may prevent older adults from staying active, which leads to reduced mobility, diminished quality of life and actually increases their risk of falling. The good news is that falls are highly preventable and help is available for older adults and their families who want to get active.

Older adults can learn their risk for falls by taking an assessment through NCOA quizzes here:

Once risk is assessed, the YMCA of Coastal Carolina is helping older adults feel strong, steady and safe by reducing falls risk through our classes like Chair Yoga, Senior Stretch, and Senior Strength.

NCOA has 6 steps older adults can take to reduce their risk of falling:  

  • Find a good balance and exercise program – Classes like chair yoga and Senior Strength help build balance, strength and flexibility—all key in preventing falls.
  • Talk to Your Health Care Provider – Share any history of falls and ask your doctor for an assessment on your risk. 
  • Regularly Review Medications with Your Doctor or Pharmacist – Make sure the medications you may be taking don’t have side effects that increase your risk of falling. 
  • Have Vision and Hearing Checked Annually and Update Your Glasses – Some falls occur simply because a person cannot see well. Your eyes and ears are key to keeping you on your feet! 
  • Keep Your Home Safe – Remove tripping hazards, increase lighting, make stairs safe and install grab bars in key areas. 
  • Talk to Your Family Members – Enlist support in taking simple steps to stay safe. Falls are not just a seniors’ issue! 

Check out our classes

All three YMCA of Coastal Carolina branches offer fitness classes to get you moving! Check out our online schedule (search by day.)

Updated Hours Today

We hope you and your family stayed safe during the storm. We will resume normal operations at all three YMCA of Coastal Carolina center locations at 11 a.m. today. 

  • Thursday, August 31: All three center locations will reopen at 11 a.m.
  • Friday, September 1: All three center locations will be open during normal hours.
 24-hour access will be unavailable to Tidelands Health Georgetown Family YMCA during the times the center is closed but will resume as normal tonight.