TY - JOUR
PY - 2022//
TI - A community-based single fall prevention exercise intervention for older adults (STEADY FEET): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
JO - PLoS one
A1 - Ong, Rebecca Hui Shan
A1 - Nurjono, Milawaty
A1 - Jumala, Junisha
A1 - Teo, Raymond Choon Chye
A1 - Png, Gek Kheng
A1 - Tan, Poh Choo
A1 - Kee, Mong Nee
A1 - Oh, Hong Choon
A1 - Wee, Moi Kim
A1 - Kan, Karen Lai Ming
A1 - Farhana Binte Rosle, Lina
A1 - Lien, Christopher Tsung Chien
A1 - Low, Shou Lin
SP - e0276385
EP - e0276385
VL - 17
IS - 10
N2 - BACKGROUND: Falls and fall-related injuries in older adults are a leading cause of disability and death. Evidence has shown the benefits of exercises in improving functional outcomes and reducing fall rates among community-dwelling older adults. However, there is lack of effective community-based single exercise intervention for a broad population of older adults who are at high risk for falls. We aim to evaluate the effectiveness of Steady Feet (SF), a 6-month tailored community fall prevention exercise programme for improving functional outcomes. SF classes are facilitated by community fitness instructors and an exercise video. The main outcome is between-group changes in short physical performance battery (SPPB) scores. Secondary outcomes include balance confidence, fear of falling, quality of life, fall rates, and cost effectiveness.
METHODS: We present the design of a 6-month randomised controlled trial of 260 older adults (≥ 60 years old). Individuals will be randomised in a 1:1 allocation ratio to the SF group or usual care group. Participants will be assessed at baseline, 3-month, and 6-month. Data on socio-demographics, co-morbidities, balance confidence, fear of falling, quality of life, physical activity level, rate of perceived exertion, fall(s) history, healthcare utilisation and cost, and satisfaction levels will be collected. Participants will also undergo functional assessments such as SPPB. Moreover, providers' satisfaction and feedback will be obtained at 3-month.
DISCUSSION: An effective community fall prevention programme may lead to improved functional outcomes and reduced fall rates.
FINDINGS will also help inform the implementation and scaling of SF nation-wide. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinicaltrials.gov registration: NCT04801316. Registered on 15th March 2021.
Language: en
LA - en SN - 1932-6203 UR - http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0276385 ID - ref1 ER -