Page 22 - Preventing Falls: How to Develop Community-based Fall Prevention Programs for Older Adults

Appendix E — Template for Developing a Sustainability Plan

A GUIDE TO IMPLEMENTING EFFECTIVE COMMUNITY-BASED FALL PREVENTION PROGRAMS

Who can benefit: Older adults at moderate
risk of falling. That is, people who have
fallen in the past, are worried about falling,
or feel unsteady when walking.

Cost benefit: Stepping On has a return
on investment (ROI) of 64%. That means,
for every dollar invested in this program,
there’s a net benefit of $1.64.

Health effect: In the original study, the fall
rate among participants was 30% lower
than for people who did not attend this
program.

Information about this program can
be found at: www.cdc.gov/STEADI/
compendium.html.

• Otago Exercise Program

Program focus: Otago is an in-home
exercise program delivered by physical
therapists. It incorporates an individually
tailored balance and strength program of
progressive exercises along with a walking
plan. The program includes at least seven
home visits and seven phone calls over a
12 month period. Information about the Otago Exercise
Who can benefit: The Otago Exercise Program can be found at: www.cdc.
Program is especially suited to somewhat gov/STEADI/compendium.html.
frail older adults and is especially beneficial
for people aged 80 and older. Selecting a program
Health effect: In the original study, the fall Once you have determined there is
rate among participants was 35% lower support for evidence-based fall prevention
than among people who did not take part programs, you will need to consider the
in this program. pros and cons of specific programs.
Cost benefit: For all people aged 65 and Selecting a program that works for your
older, the return on investment (ROI) was community and your organization takes
36%. However, for people aged 80 and some thought and time. Based on a
older, the ROI was 127%. community needs assessment, your goals,

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