Oasis Receives $1.94 Million Grant for Falls Prevention Programs

Oasis, a nonprofit organization based in St. Louis, Missouri, has been awarded a $1.94 million federal grant to expand its falls screening and prevention programming for older adults. This funding, part of a broader federal initiative, will help Oasis reach more individuals and reduce the risk of falls, which can have a significant impact on an older adult's health and independence.

The need for effective falls prevention continues to grow as the nation's population ages. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) reports that nonfatal falls among older adults account for an estimated $80 billion in annual healthcare spending nationwide. Falls risk can be reduced through early identification of risk factors, improved strength and balance, and practical changes that make daily activities safer.

Oasis has established a community-based approach to addressing these falls prevention measures through its Center for Falls Prevention at the St. Louis Oasis Northwest Plaza location in St. Ann, Missouri. The center brings together free fall prevention resources in one location, making it easier for older adults to understand their individual risks and take steps to reduce them. Offerings include one-on-one screenings and consultations with clinical pharmacists and physical therapists, evidence-based workshops such as Matter of Balance and Healthy Steps for Older Adults, and exercise classes designed to improve strength, balance, and flexibility. The center also connects older adults with local health experts through educational panels and discussions addressing falls risk and related health concerns.

The new federal funding will help Oasis build on this foundation by expanding access to evidence-based falls prevention programs and strengthening connections between healthcare providers and community resources. As part of the broader federal initiative, the funding supports efforts to expand programs in Missouri such as Stepping On, which helps older adults address common falls risks related to balance, medications, vision, footwear, and home safety. By connecting clinical screenings with practical, community-based support, Oasis aims to help more older adults take preventive action before a fall leads to serious injury.

Oasis will begin rolling out its expanded falls prevention programming in early 2027, building on its existing efforts to make evidence-based resources more accessible to older adults. The organization will recruit several paid, part-time facilitators to lead programs in the community. These positions are particularly well-suited for retired or semi-retired nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and exercise professionals interested in helping older adults improve their strength, balance, and confidence.