Safe Communities Ashburton and Hato Hone St John are joining forces against April Falls.
They are hosting a free event at the Ashburton library this month to give people practical tips to stay strong and steady.
Falls are a leading cause of injury and loss of independence, resulting in more than 53,700 ambulance callouts nationwide last year, around 12 per cent of total workload.
It’s included as part of St John’s inaugural month-long April Falls campaign in communities to reduce the incidence and severity of falls and help New Zealanders age with strength, safety, and dignity.
Deputy chief executive – clinical services Jon Moores said via a statement that for many older people, a single fall could be the moment to change their daily life, and affect their mobility, confidence, independence, and overall wellbeing.
“Falls are more common than people realise, and the risk increases over the age of 65.
‘‘But this is not an inevitable part of ageing. Many falls can be prevented through simple, everyday actions including regular movement, balance exercises, checking home hazards and staying connected with wha ¯nau and community.”
Kiwis were encouraged to take three practical steps: enrol a loved one in a strength and balance class, download ACC’s free Nymbl app for people aged 50 and over, and reduce hazards in the home using Hato Hone St John’s falls prevention booklet.
“We are on a journey to standing stronger together, and our partners and communities all play a vital part. Everyone has a parent, grandparent, friend or neighbour who they can support to live confidently, safely, and independently,” Moores said.
Falls account for nearly 40 percent of all ACC injury claims.
In 2025, ACC accepted more than 196,000 claims for falls among people aged 65 and older. These injuries cost more than $460 million to help people recover.
ACC injury prevention leader James Whitaker says around 42 per cent of all home-related injuries were from falls or loss of balance.
“Falls have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life, especially if it results in a fracture, so we want to do what we can to prevent them from happening in the first place.”
“Research shows that regular strength and balance training can reduce the risk of falls by almost a third.’’
– SAVE THE DATE: April Falls community event at the Ashburton library event space on Thursday, April 30 from 10am to 12.30pm. Learn practical ways to stay strong, steady, and confident at home and in the community. Health checks, testing and information. Giveaways, and morning tea provided.
