Falls Prevention Program
Introduction
Who Should Attend?
Subjects Covered
Does
the Program Replace Existing Programs and Treatments?
How was the
Program Developed?
How
was the Program Evaluated and What were the Results?
Wisconsin
Contacts for Information
Workshops (Exit DHS)
Additional Fall Prevention Information
Introduction
In Wisconsin, falls are the leading cause of injury and
deaths among older adults. Of those that fall, 20-30% suffer injuries
that reduce mobility and independent living. Wisconsin ranks in the top
5 states in the United States in the number of deaths due to falls. The
cost of falls that result in injuries that need hospitalization exceeds
$237 million annually.
Stepping On is a program that empowers older adults to
carry out health behaviors that:
-
reduce the risks of falls,
-
improve self-management, and
-
increase quality of life.
In local community-based workshops that seniors attend
once a week for 7 weeks, older adults develop specific knowledge and
skills to prevent falls.
Who Should Attend?
People who are:
Workshops are led by two trained leaders, a health
professional and a peer who themselves meet the criteria for the class
and has already taken the class.
Subjects Covered
Include:
It is how the program is taught that makes it so
effective. Classes are highly participative, where mutual support and
success build the participants' confidence in their ability to manage
their health behaviors to reduce the risk of falls and to maintain
active and fulfilling lives.
Does
the Program Replace Existing Programs and Treatments?
The Stepping On program will not conflict with existing
programs or treatments.
How was the
Program Developed?
The program is the work of Dr. Lindy Clemson, a
occupational therapist from Australia.
How
was the Program Evaluated and what were the Results?
The Programs was published in the September 2004 issue
of the Journal of American Geriatrics Society. At the end of the
study, Dr. Clemson found those completing Stepping On experienced a 31%
reduction of falls. This demonstration that the program was effective in
preventing falls in community-residing older adults.
Wisconsin
Contacts for Information
Wisconsin Institute for Healthy Aging
1414 MacArthur Road, Suite B
Madison, WI 53714
Phone: (608) 243-5690
E-mail: info@wihealthyaging.org
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Last Revised:
April 11, 2013
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