Randomized Controlled Study Comparing the Physiatry-Based Steady Strides Fall Prevention Protocol to Standard Primary Care in Community-Dwelling Older Adults

What this Trial Is About

Falls are a major cause of preventable injury and death among community-dwelling older adults aged 65 and older in the US. The trial evaluates the effectiveness of the structured physiatry-based Steady Strides Fall Prevention Protocol compared to the standard care provided by primary care providers. The study aims to reduce falls and related complications by focusing on functional and biomechanical factors that contribute to fall risk, involving a multidisciplinary approach led by specialists trained in functional medicine and rehabilitation. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups: the Steady Strides intervention or standard care. The Steady Strides group receives a multifactorial program led by physiatrists and rehabilitation therapists trained in the protocol, combining medical and rehabilitation interventions. The control group receives usual care coordinated by their primary care provider, including evaluation and management according to CDC's STEADI guidelines. Assessments occur at baseline, 2 months, and follow-ups up to 8 months. Participants will be involved in evaluations including physical and cognitive assessments, fall risk and fear of falling measures, functional reach tests, frailty and emotional wellbeing assessments, and monitoring of fall-related hospitalizations and healthcare use. Data are collected at baseline, during intervention completion at 2 months, and monthly up to 8 months. The primary outcome is the total number of falls six months after completing the intervention. Safety and side effects are also tracked throughout the study duration.

Steady Stride Fall Prevention Protocol vs Standard of Care