WOODSTOCK – Centegra Health System recognizes the statewide Fall Prevention Awareness Day on Saturday and aims to prevent falls among the elderly.

About one-third of community-dwelling persons aged 65 years and older have one or more falls a year, many of which lead to a hip fracture, reduced functioning and even death, according to a news release.

Karen Battaglia, trauma coordinator at Centegra Hospital – McHenry, said fall prevention should focus on three areas. First, all older adults should participate in regular exercise to improve balance and strength. Second, they should review medications with their physician. Third, poor vision is linked to falling, so older adults should have regular vision checkups.