Fall Prevention Program Using Home Safety Improvements for Community-Living Seniors Aged 60 to 80 in Guangzhou

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying ways to prevent falls among older adults living in their communities. This trial focuses on people aged 60 to 80 years who have experienced falls before or are worried about falling. The goal is to see if making changes to the home environment can help reduce falls, improve safety knowledge and quality of life, and be cost-effective and easy to apply on a larger scale. The study is conducted with careful quality control and cooperation among various stakeholders. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group receives a one-time home visit from a trained community health worker who assesses fall risks and gives personalized advice on how to reduce hazards. They also receive safety aids like non-slip mats, night lights, warning signs, and tape to secure rugs. This intervention happens 4 to 6 weeks after the initial survey. The other group continues their usual activities without any home modifications or safety aids. Both groups are followed for 12 months, with monthly tracking of falls. Throughout the 12 months, participants complete assessments at the start, 6 months, and 12 months to measure the rate of falls, knowledge and attitudes about fall prevention, confidence in avoiding falls, quality of life, and physical mobility using the Timed Up and Go Test. Monthly fall calendars are used to track fall events. The study carefully monitors all participants to understand the effects of the home modifications and gather data to support future fall prevention efforts.

Guangzhou Community Elderly Fall Prevention Appropriate Technology Promotion Project