Health groups host fall prevention fair for older adults in Wausau

WAUSAU, Wis. (WSAW) - Local health organizations are hosting an event Tuesday to connect older adults with free health screenings and prevention resources as Wisconsin marks Falls Prevention Awareness Month.

The Aging & Disability Resource Center of Central Wisconsin and Aspirus Health are sponsoring the fourth annual “Improve Your Balance, Prevent Falls Resource Fair,” scheduled from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday.

Screenings and resources offered

Upon arrival, attendees can complete a short fall risk assessment to help direct them to specialized informational booths based on their individual needs. The fair features free vision, hearing, strength and balance screenings, as well as guidance on medication management, bone health, assistive devices and home safety.

New additions this year include optional exercise class demonstrations tailored for older adults, along with civic engagement resources from the Wisconsin Institute of Healthy Aging and Marathon County Healthy Aging Coalition to help seniors contact their elected officials.

Falls linked to county, state health data

The event directly targets recommendations outlined in the 2026 Marathon County LIFE Report. Falls among older adults remain the primary cause of injury-related emergency room visits, hospitalizations and EMS calls across Marathon County.

Statewide, Wisconsin leads the country in older adult fall deaths, with falls also causing more than 95% of hip fractures nationally.

Event location and parking

The fair will be held at the Lake View Conference Center, located at 1000 Lake View Drive in Wausau. Visitors are advised to park in Lot E or F and enter through Door 31.

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