"Evidence-based fall prevention programs" required for funding

Federal, state, and local governments realize the extreme financial cost as more older adults fall down; an estimated 1 in 3 people over 65 falls each year (CDC, 2006).  Medicare recognizes the painfully high financial burden when the same older adult falls repeatedly; half of those who fall once will fall again (CDC, 2006).  What's happening is older adults are falling down, going to the ER and those not seriously injured are being released to the same environment in which they fell.

No education.  No intervention.  Nothing changes.   As a result, the older adult falls again and repeats the cycle; falls down, fire department called, ER visit, released home.  Medical bills rack up until something happens; the older adult either moves in with family members or an assisted living environment or moves onto be with the Lord. 

What is so painful is that fall prevention research demonstrates that over 50 percent of falls can be prevented through a multi-factorial approach.  HUH?  Educate. Demonstrate. Facilitate.

• Teach what is causing the fall or loss of balance.  Education increases awareness. 
• Demonstrate how to reduce the risk when possible.  Exercise is the number one way to prevent a fall.  Therefore, demonstrate the different types of exercise that improve balance.
• Facilitate behavior change by linking the older adult to appropriate resources; resources that teach how to reduce fall risk, demonstrate how to remain active and facilitate compliance by linking with resources. 

Federal and state governments will only fund evidence-based programs; programs that demonstrate significant fall risk reduction and/or improved balance confidence.   Medicare will no longer reimburse medical expenses related to prior admissions. 

Some evidence-based programs that are currently being promoted in California:

• Stepping On
• Tai Chi Moving for Better Balance
• Walking with Ease
• Chronic Disease Management
• Live Strong and Safe (with my Take 5 to Exercise component!)

Training for trainers is available through Public Health department and private training.  Get involved.  Get funding.  Get evidence-based programming!