A randomized trial of a multifaceted intervention to reduce falls among community-dwelling adults.
Using a randomized controlled trial, we tested the efficacy of a fall prevention intervention to reduce falls among adults in a community-based health promotion program. Adults aged 65 and older within two counties were recruited (control n = 257; intervention n = 286). After 12 months, there was a significant decrease in the number of falls in both groups (odds ratio = 0.45, p < .04), but the time by group membership interaction was not significant (χ(2) = 0.15, p < .69). Multivariate analysis did not find significant differences between the control and intervention groups for physical function as measured by a balance test or a sitting/standing test. Further research is needed on effective methods to deliver multifaceted fall interventions to older adults who are already being served by community health promotion programs.
Institute for Health & Aging, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, USA. pat.fox@ucsf.edu
Patrick J
PJ
Fox
Laurie
L
Vazquez
Chris
C
Tonner
Judy A
JA
Stevens
Norman
N
Fineman
Leslie K
LK
Ross
D000058:Accidental Falls / Q000517:prevention & control*; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D015577:Geriatric Assessment / Q000379:methods; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012111:Residence Characteristics; D012737:Sex Factors; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors