Prevent falls

Published in The Philadelphia Inquirer on August 5, 2026

Like the rest of the country, Pennsylvania’s population is aging quickly, meaning the demand for services that support seniors’ health and well-being is increasing. For many, that includes access to physical therapy.

Physical therapy is a lifeline for seniors struggling with balance or mobility issues. It was a topic we had the opportunity to discuss when Rep. Madeleine Dean recently visited our facilities. Every day, we help older adults stay safe on their feet and reduce their risk of falls, the leading cause of injury-related deaths among Americans age 65 and older.

Deaths and injuries related to falls have increased significantly over the past couple of decades. Tens of millions of older Americans experience a fall each year, and one out of every five falls results in a serious injury. Beyond the personal toll on individuals and families, falls also contribute to tens of billions of dollars in healthcare costs annually.

That’s why I want to voice my support for the Stopping Addiction and Falls for the Elderly (SAFE) Act (HR 1171). This bill would ensure Medicare beneficiaries can receive a falls risk assessment at no cost as part of their annual wellness visit. These assessments allow physical therapists to identify risks early and recommend strategies to prevent falls before they happen.

Rep. Dean’s support for the SAFE Act would help advance this important legislation and improve access to preventive care for older adults. Together, we can help keep seniors safer, healthier, and independent while reducing unnecessary healthcare costs.

Timothy Flaherty, regional vice president-Northeast, ATI Physical Therapy, Ambler

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