Abstract
Stepping On is a group-based fall prevention program for older people living in the community. Compared to a randomized control group, participation in Stepping On led to a 31 % reduction in falls. Stepping On is conducted in community settings and is aimed at older adults who have fallen or have a fear of falling. Workshop leaders are health or gerontology professionals who are knowledgeable in group facilitation and falls prevention, and experienced in working with older adults. Evaluation of Stepping On in the United States has demonstrated effectiveness similar to the original study. Wisconsin Institute for Healthy Aging (WIHA) facilitates program dissemination in the United States. WIHA trains new leaders, monitors fidelity with implementation, and provides technical assistance to organizations implementing the program. Primary providers play a crucial role in referring their patients to the workshops. Cost–benefit analysis shows a net savings of $125 per participant in prevented injury costs. There is no direct fee-for-service reimbursement through Medicare for the program, but Medicare Advantage plans may cover the workshop. Given the high cost of falls, ACOs and other managed care organizations may find it business worthy to pay physical therapists, occupational therapists, health educators, or social workers in their organization to provide the Stepping On program.
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Mahoney, J., Clemson, L., Lovarini, M. (2015). Stepping On, a Community-Based Falls Prevention Program. In: Malone, M., Capezuti, E., Palmer, R. (eds) Geriatrics Models of Care. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-16068-9_17
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-16068-9_17
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