Oregon Research Institute

Translating an Effective Fall Prevention Program into a Community-Based Practice

Investigators are working to determine whether an evidence-based Tai Chi fall prevention program can be disseminated through a broad spectrum of community-based senior service providers who often serve low income, under-served community-dwelling older adults.

Details

In the U.S.A, more than one of every three adults aged 65 and older fall each year. Fall-related injuries cause significant pre-mature mortality, disability, loss of independence, and early admission to nursing homes. This study will determine whether an evidence-based Tai Chi fall prevention program can be disseminated through a broad spectrum of community-based senior service provides who often cater to low income, under-served community-dwelling older adults at risk of falling. If shown to be both implementable and sustainable, the proposed fall prevention program will provide an effective, low-cost, easy-to-implement intervention that could be used by public health practitioners and community-based organizations to address the problem of falls among older adults.