Can a Fall Prevention Coalition impact service providers' behaviors?

Many communities in the U.S. have formed coalitions to address the multi-factorial issue of fall prevention, but not many have evaluated the impact of their provider education on the providers' behavior. The Fall Prevention Task Force (FPTF) was established with the mission of reducing falls in San Diego County. Activities include distribution of educational materials, creation of several videos, and educational events for service providers and older adults. In 2008, a FPTF needs assessment found that very few local service providers conducted primary fall prevention activities with their clients, nor did they refer clients to other service providers to address fall risk factors. In response, the FPTF designed a “Fall Prevention Toolkit,” and created an on-line Resource Guide for local professionals. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the FPTF in changing the behavior of local professionals reached by the FPTF. A “Survey Monkey” was sent to FPTF members and to people who had received a Toolkit (approximately 300 people). Preliminary analysis of the 68 respondent surveys indicates that many providers have changed their practice behaviors. For instance, a little over half (54.2%) said they refer clients to community programs such as exercise classes more often than before FPTF involvement. Thirty percent (30%) said they conduct fall risk assessments more often now. In a more detailed analysis, we hope to find a significant positive association between the level of involvement in the FPTF and the level of fall prevention activities conducted with older adults.