The Massachusetts Assisted Living Facilities Association is working with Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley, through its Healthy Living Center of Excellence, to implement evidence-based falls prevention programs in all assisted living communities in the state, according to a posting on Mass-ALFA’s website.

Communities in the state are using A Matter of Balance, a workshop program that aims to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels. Research has found that program participants are less likely to fall compared with adults in comparison groups.

“In the last year alone, more than 76 workshops have been held in 61 different locations throughout Massachusetts, including senior centers, councils on aging, housing, assisted living facilities, faith based organizations and other sites,” says Mass-ALFA. “More than 1,000 older adults have attended these workshops, gaining knowledge and skills that will help prevent and manage falls.”

Falls account for 46.3% of serious adverse events in assisted living, according to CNA Healthcare claims data cited by Mass-ALFA.