Study protocol: process and outcome evaluation of the Walk with Ease program for fall prevention

Abstract

Abstract Background Falls are the leading cause of injury related morbidity and mortality in older adults. Primary and secondary prevention strategies that address modifiable risk factors are critically important to reduce the number of falls and fall related injuries. A number of evidence-based fall prevention programs are available, but few offer potential for broad dissemination and public health impact due to implementation barriers, such as a need for trained program leaders and clinicians. Methods The study will use a randomized controlled trial design to evaluate incorporating physical therapy exercises (primary prevention strategy) within an existing intervention called Walk with Ease. While Walk with Ease has an established evidence-base related to the management of arthritis pain and symptoms, the present study will determine the potential to also reduce falls and fall risk in community-dwelling older adults. The integrated process and outcome evaluation will determine the relative effectiveness of individually-prescribed exercises (compared to standardized exercises) as well as the potential of ‘habit training’ resources (relative to generic behavior prompts) to improve compliance with exercises in this population. Discussion The study, conducted through a local clinical-community partnership will advance both the science and practice of community-based fall prevention programming, while also informing implementation strategies needed to promote broader dissemination. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05693025, Registered January 20, 2023, Updated March 1, 2023.

Keywords

• Physical activity
• Healthy aging
• Falls
• Falls prevention
• Physical therapy