EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Rhode Island's Department of Health (RIDOH) announced on Thursday it received a federal grant intended for helping prevent falls.

The $600,000 grant comes from the Administration for Community Living, which will be used for decreasing risks for the elderly and those with disabilities in underserved areas from falling.

"This is Fall Prevention Awareness Week, and it is an important reminder that the prevention of falls is one way to help older adults maintain their independence," said Olutosin Ojugbele, medical director for RIDOH’s Division of Community Health and Equity. "By helping older adults to focus on improved balance, strength, and home safety, we can significantly reduce the risk of falls and enhance quality of life."

According to state health officials, nearly 20 out of 1,000 emergency room visits were because of falls from 2016 to 2022.

The money will fund an expansion of fall-prevention programs like "A Matter of Balance" and "Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance" in Woonsocket, Providence and East Providence's housing authorities.

There will also be an increased effort of raising fall-prevention awareness. You can find additional resources for preventing falls here.