The effects and costs of a multifactorial and interdisciplinary team approach to falls prevention for older home care clients 'at risk' for falling: a randomized controlled trial

Can J Aging. 2010 Mar;29(1):139-61. doi: 10.1017/S0714980809990377.

Abstract

This study determined the effects and costs of a multifactorial, interdisciplinary team approach to falls prevention. Randomized controlled trial of 109 older adults who are at risk for falls. This was a six-month multifactorial and evidence-based prevention strategy involving an interdisciplinary team. The primary outcome was number of falls during the six-month follow-up. At six months, no difference in the mean number of falls between groups. Subgroup analyses showed that the intervention effectively reduced falls in men (75-84 years old) with a fear of falling or negative fall history. Number of slips and trips was greatly reduced; and emotional health had a greater improvement in role functioning related to emotional health in the intervention group. Quality of life was improved, slips and trips were reduced, as were falls among males (75-84 years old) with a fear of falling or negative fall history.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00463658.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls / prevention & control*
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Animals
  • Emotions
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Fear
  • Female
  • Health Services for the Aged / organization & administration
  • Health Services for the Aged / standards*
  • Health Status
  • Home Care Services / organization & administration*
  • Home Care Services / standards
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pain
  • Patient Care Team
  • Perception
  • Risk Factors
  • Sex Characteristics

Associated data

  • ClinicalTrials.gov/NCT00463658