Developing Community-Level Implementation Networks to Connect Older Adults to Evidence-Based Falls Prevention Programs.

Evidence-based falls prevention programs are available in many communities, but participation in such programs remains low. This study aimed to develop community-based referral networks of organizations to facilitate the uptake of evidence-based falls prevention programs through engaging older adults at risk for falls with the RememberingWhen™ program and connecting them to evidence-based programs in Midwestern communities. Guided by the Practical, Robust Implementation and Sustainability Model (PRISM), referral networks were developed in two Midwestern communities (urban and micropolitan) through a seven-step community engagement plan: establishing and operationalizing the State-level Advisory Board (SAB), identifying falls prevention resources, conducting community assessments, developing Local Advisory Groups (LAG), operationalizing the LAG, developing referral network and protocols, and implementing the network.

Evaluation of a Falls and Fire Safety Program for Community-Dwelling Older Adults.

Remembering When™ (RW) is a falls and fire prevention program delivered by fire service personnel and homecare organizations to help older adults live safely at home for as long as possible. This study evaluated changes in falls prevention and fire safety behaviors and perceptions and social support associated with falls and residential fires among older adults following delivery of the RW program by fire service personnel. In a convenience sample of adults 65 + years residing in five Iowa communities, 70 received the RW program during a home visit and 75 received the RW program in a group presentation followed by a home visit.