Citation

Williams HG, Ullmann G. J. Phys. Act. Health 2011; 9(4): 571-580.

Affiliation

Department of Exercise Science, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Human Kinetics Publishers)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

21946291

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Falls and fall-related injuries are critical issues for older adults; evidence indicates that multidimensional interventions that address modifiable risk factors can be successful in reducing falls. Few evidence-based fall prevention interventions exist due, in part, to complex issues associated with development and implementation. There is a need for a variety of such programs from which older adults may choose. We describe steps, outcomes, issues involved in developing/implementing an evidenced-based fall prevention program in community settings. METHODS: The Stay In Balance program (SIB), developed by a team of professionals, local service providers and active older adults, was carried out with total of 135 older adults in several steps: developing objectives and program content, laboratory-based randomized controlled trial (RCT), pilot program in the community, community-based RCT, and implementation at two community sites. RESULTS: Each step in development provided useful and different insights into needed changes in program content, equipment, support materials, training, and appropriate outcome measures. CONCLUSION: Development of an evidenced-base fall prevention program requires a long term commitment on the part of all partners, University personnel, local service providers, older adult participants; funding is also critical.

Language: en