Fall-Prevention Education and Fall-Related Behaviors in Older Adults

The Effect of Fall-Prevention Education on Fall-Related Behaviors in Older Adults

This study investigates the effect of a structured fall-prevention education program on safe fall-related behaviors in older adults. Falls are a common and serious problem among older individuals and may lead to injuries, loss of independence, and decreased quality of life. The study includes older adults at high risk of falls who are randomly assigned to an intervention or control group. The intervention group participates in two interactive educational sessions covering fall risk factors, home safety, safe behaviors, and preventive strategies, followed by a question-and-answer discussion. The control group receives an informational brochure only. Participants' fall-related behaviors are assessed before and after the intervention using validated measurement tools. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of structured, interactive education in improving fall-prevention behaviors among older adults.

Falls among older adults are a major public health concern, causing injuries, loss of independence, and increased healthcare costs. Nursing-led educational interventions play a key role in increasing awareness and promoting protective behaviors. This study is designed as a pretest-posttest, parallel-group randomized controlled trial to be conducted with older adults attending a family health center in Central Anatolia, Türkiye. Participants are classified as high fall risk according to the Morse Fall Risk Scale. Inclusion criteria include age 65 or older, Turkish literacy, and consent to participate. Exclusion criteria include prior fall education, communication problems, or low fall risk scores. The intervention group receives a structured fall-prevention education program consisting of two 25-minute interactive sessions, separated by a 10-minute break. The first session addresses intrinsic and extrinsic fall risk factors, while the second focuses on home safety modifications, safe behaviors, and health measures, concluding with a question-and-answer segment. The control group receives a brochure only. Data will be collected using the Personal Information Form, Morse Fall Risk Scale, and Fall Behaviors Scale for Older Adults. Statistical analyses will include paired and independent t-tests to assess within-group and between-group differences. Ethical approval has been obtained from the Sivas Cumhuriyet University Non-Interventional Clinical Research Ethics Committee (Decision No: 2024-07/32, 18 July 2024), along with written permission from the Provincial Directorate of Health. All participants will provide written informed consent, and the study will be conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki principles.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged 65 years or older
• Native Turkish speaker
• Literate in Turkish
• High score on the Morse Fall Risk Scale
• Provided informed consent to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• Not a native Turkish speaker
• Younger than 65 years of age
• Presence of communication problems
• Low score on the Morse Fall Risk Scale
• Previously received fall-related education
• Declined to participate in the study