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Tom Carlson, PhD, Urban Studies, University of Washington, Tacoma, Campus Box 358437, 1900 Commerce Street, Tacoma, WA 98402, 253 692-4679, carlstont@u.washington.edu, Sally York, MN, NorthWest Orthopaedic Institute, P.O. Box 1878, Tacoma, WA 98401, and Janet Primomo, PhD, Nursing, University of Washington, Tacoma, Campus Box 358421, 1900 Commerce Street, Tacoma, WA 98402.

The purpose of this research was to utilize the analytical capability of geographic information systems (GIS) to conduct a site selection analysis for a community-based falls prevention program for older adults. This program's goal is to reduce fall-related injuries and hospitalizations by reducing modifiable falls risk factors in older adults. The program provides group strength and balance exercise, and falls prevention education. Program sites need to be geographically distributed based on older adult census densities, and accessible by older adults on a regular basis, two to three times a week.

A community-based research institute partnered with a university GIS expert to conduct the study. Over 80 potential program sites in Pierce County, Washington were identified through a community assessment. Potential sites were ranked based on lessons learned from the 2003-2005 Washington State Department of Health's Senior Falls Prevention Study. These findings indicated that program sites need to have the capacity and commitment to provide daytime older adult activity programs, and a census density of seniors with less than a 20 minute driving distance on local streets.

GIS was identified as the most effective tool to use to select suitable sites based on these criteria. Potential site addresses were entered in GIS, along with 2000 U.S. census data for adults >65 years of age. Local road networks were converted into service areas using actual travel distance or time in GIS.

By using GIS technology, potential sites were effectively ranked to facilitate selection of future program partners.

Learning Objectives: