title: Reducing the risk of falls among older adults: the Fallproof Balance and Mobility Program.
abstract: Fall-related deaths among the older adult segment of the population constitute a growing public health concern that is largely preventable. A growing body of research has identified a number of effective intervention strategies that can lower the incidence of falls and/or risk factors that contribute to heightened fall risk. One particularly effective intervention strategy that has been identified is exercise, whether individually prescribed or conducted in group-based settings. The Fallproof Balance and Mobility Program was developed in response to the need for effective community-based programs that target the important intrinsic risk factors (e.g., impaired balance and gait, muscle weakness) associated with increased fall risk. This theory-driven program adopts a multidimensional approach to balance and mobility that has proven to be effective in reducing fall risk among older adults identified as moderate-to-high risk for falls. The fidelity of the program also has been maintained by implementing an instructor certification program and standardizing program content and delivery.
authors.affiliation: Center for Successful Aging, California State University-Fullerton, 800 North State College Blvd., Fullerton, CA 92834, USA. drose@fullerton.edu
authors.forename: Debra J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Rose
mesh_terms: D000058:Accidental Falls / Q000517:prevention & control*; D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging; D015444:Exercise; D005684:Gait; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009949:Orientation; D010809:Physical Fitness; D004856:Postural Balance; D016730:Program Development; D012307:Risk Factors; D012677:Sensation