Increasing Ocupational Performance and Fall Self-Efficacy in Older Adults: The "Stepping On" Program
Graduation Date
2011
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Document Form
Degree Name
Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy
Department
Occupational Therapy
Department or Program Chair
Ruth Ramsey, EdD, OTR/L
Thesis Advisor
Ruth Ramsey, EdD, OTR/L
Abstract
OBJECTIVE. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the “Stepping On” fall prevention program in increasing older adults’ fall self-efficacy.
METHOD. Eighteen community-dwelling older adults aged 79 years or older participated in the 7-week multimodal fall prevention program. The study was a quantitative, quasi-experimental research design with pre and post intervention measures to determine fall self-efficacy and static and dynamic balance. The modified fall efficacy scale (MFES), the Timed Get Up and Go (TGUG), and the Romberg Test were the assessment tools used to evaluate the effectiveness of the “Stepping On” program.
RESULTS. Sixty-seven percent of the participants reported an increase in fall self- efficacy after attending the Stepping On program with results approaching statistical significance (p=0.067). Participants who had fallen within the past year had a greater percent increase in fall efficacy scores than those who had not. Results were inconclusive regarding dynamic balance and 36% of participants had improved static balance, but results were not statistically significant.
CONCLUSION. The “Stepping On” fall prevention program is an effective approach for improving fall self-efficacy, especially for individuals with a recent fall, and tor improving static balance in older adults residing at a senior aggregate housing facility. This study supports the effectiveness of multimodal, evidence-based tall prevention programs such as “Stepping On” to help older adults continue to age in place, increase quality of life, and maintain independence and community living.