Journal of geriatric physical therapy
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J Geriatr Phys Ther · Jul 2018
Randomized Controlled TrialDetermining Whether a Dosage-Specific and Individualized Home Exercise Program With Consults Reduces Fall Risk and Falls in Community-Dwelling Older Adults With Difficulty Walking: A Randomized Control Trial.
The development and implementation of effective interventions to prevent falls in older adults is a public health priority. The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of a new practice model, incorporating Shubert's evidence-based fall prevention recommendations, with the usual ambulatory physical therapy (PT) at Rusk Rehabilitation, to decrease fall risk among older adults living in the community. The hypotheses were (1) the proposed program would decrease participants' fall risk, (2) it would be more effective than our usual PT, and (3) the addition of 4 consults after discharge would improve compliance with a home exercise program. ⋯ This study supports the efficacy of the experimental program in decreasing fall risk and being more effective than our usual care, as well as fostering greater compliance with an exercise regimen. It provides some preliminary evidence to support Shubert's recommendation on exercise prescription for fall prevention.