01/06/2026
Missourians age 65 and older make up 17.5% of the state’s population, and that share is projected to exceed 20% by 2030, according to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.
Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults and they are costly. The CDC estimates falls cost Missouri $883 million each year. Beyond medical expenses, falls can have lasting effects, including reduced quality of life, loss of independence and fewer opportunities to socialize and stay connected, which can also impact mental health.
MU Extension programs such as A Matter of Balance, Walk With Ease and Tai Chi help participants reduce fall risk, build confidence and stay active while fostering supportive communities.
Before his first session at MU Extension in Cole County, Walter Friesen could barely walk for two minutes. Today, he keeps pace with the group, walks for 20 minutes at a time, and continues returning for additional classes to strengthen both his body and mind.
“Once I started doing it, I felt better after,” Friesen said. “It’s better to move. Motion is lotion.”
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