Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries for those 65 and older, and the chances of falling and being seriously injured in a fall increase with age.

In recognition of annual Falls Prevention Awareness Day, students and faculty from Western Carolina University’s Department of Physical Therapy are teaming up with the Jackson County Senior Center and Department of Public Health to offer free programs to help older adults decrease their chance of a fall.

• Learn general tips and brief exercises older adults can use to reduce their risk of falling 11-11:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 17, at the Jackson County Department on Aging office in Sylva. RSVP for lunch. 828.631.8033.

• An hour-long balance improvement exercise class will be held from 2-3 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 21, at the Jackson County Senior Center. 828.586.4944.

• A fall risk screening clinic will be offered at the Cashiers-Glenville Fire Station from 8:45 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 27. Undergo a series of simple tests to assess your fall risk, including medication reviews by a pharmacist, and receive individualized recommendations based on the results. 828.587.8279.