Sustainability of community-based fall prevention programs: a systematic review.
BACKGROUND
Fall prevention programs may be implemented but not sustained. We conducted a systematic review to identify any theories, models, frameworks, influencing factors or interventions for sustaining fall prevention programs in the community.


METHODS
Peer-reviewed publications describing, investigating, or evaluating program sustainability were accessed. A narrative review was conducted to compare and synthesize study findings.


RESULTS
Nineteen publications were included. Three conceptual frameworks were identified describing how programs may be better sustained. While ongoing financial support and the participation of older people were commonly reported influences, other factors specific to the type of program and setting were also reported. Planning, training, and collaboration between program stakeholders may facilitate sustainable programs.


CONCLUSIONS
Organizations can use these findings when planning for sustainable programs. However more robust empirical studies are needed to confirm the value of conceptual frameworks, the critical factors and most effective interventions for sustaining community-based fall prevention programs.
Discipline of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, 75 East Street, Lidcombe, NSW 2141, Australia. Electronic address: meryl.lovarini@sydney.edu.au.
Meryl
M
Lovarini
Lindy
L
Clemson
Catherine
C
Dean
D000058:Accidental Falls / Q000517:prevention & control*; D000368:Aged; D055317:Evidence-Based Practice; D005260:Female; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012107:Research Design; D057170:Translational Research, Biomedical
Accidental falls; Evidence-based practice; Knowledge translation; Translational research