Post-Hospital Falls Prevention Intervention: A Mixed-Methods Study.

Abstract

Post-hospital discharge shows increased risk for falls in older people. This pilot study was created to determine feasibility and acceptability of a community-delivered post-hospital multi-factorial program. This mixed-method study used randomised controlled design (quantitative component) and interviews (qualitative component). People aged ≥65 years, hospitalised for a fall, underwent assessment for quality of life and falls-related outcomes, followed by interviews, randomisation into intervention (exercise, medication review and education) or control group, and follow-up at 6-months. Thirteen people commenced, with ten people assessed at 6-months. Participants were complex with high degrees of frailty, multi-morbidity, polypharmacy and falls risk. Interview data related to intervention, impacts on quality of life and fall-related outcomes. Preliminary findings suggest suitability of a multi-factorial program for older people post-hospital discharge following a fall. A social component would be a useful addition to falls-prevention strategies, utilising existing community nursing organisations.