Multifactorial Falls Prevention Program - Brazil

Effectiveness of a Multifactorial Falls Prevention Program in Community-dwelling Older People When Compared to Usual Care: A Randomized, Controlled Trial

This study is a clinical trial designed to evaluate the effectiveness of a multifactorial falls prevention program in reducing the rate of falls.

A multifactorial falls prevention program consisting of an individualized medical management of the modifiable risk factors, a progressive on-site body balance exercise plus a home-based exercise program, an educational/behavioral intervention and a fall prevention booklet will reduce the number of falls and fall rates when compared with usual care.

This study is a multicenter parallel-group randomized trial among community-dwelling men and women aged 60 years and over, who have fallen at least once in the previous year. Participants will be recruited in multiple settings in Sao Paulo - Brazil and will be randomly allocated to a control group or an intervention group.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Community-dwelling older adults, men and women aged 60 and over who have fallen at least once in the last 12 months

Exclusion Criteria:

• A previous diagnosis of dementia or a cognitive decline;
• A previous stroke with a severe neurological impairment;
• A progressive neurological disease;
• A severe visual deficiency;
• Any acute illness that the physician considers as an exercise contra-indication;
• An acute vertigo or dizziness less than 3 months duration;
• Inability to keep on standing, even with the use of a walking aid or other device;
• Unable to communicate;
• Those who are engaged in a regular exercise program, including physical therapy, with a frequency of equal to or more than twice a week such as: muscle strengthening, balance or gait exercise, Tai Chi and Yoga