A Randomized, Controlled Trial of a Group Intervention to Reduce Fear of Falling and Associated Activity Restriction in Older Adults

TLDR

The study tested whether a community‑based group intervention could reduce fear of falling and activity restriction among older adults. A randomized, single‑blind controlled trial enrolled 434 adults aged 60+ from 40 senior housing sites in Boston, collecting data at baseline and at 6‑week, 6‑month, and 12‑month follow‑ups. Intervention participants showed higher intended activity and mobility control immediately post‑intervention, and at 12 months had better social function and mobility range, though the benefits were modest and waned without a booster.

Abstract

A randomized, single-blind controlled trial was conducted to test the efficacy of a community-based group intervention to reduce fear of falling and associated restrictions in activity levels among older adults. A sample of 434 persons age 60+ years, who reported fear of falling and associated activity restriction, was recruited from 40 senior housing sites in the Boston metropolitan area. Data were collected at baseline, and at 6-week, 6-month, and 12-month follow-ups. Compared with contact control subjects, intervention subjects reported increased levels of intended activity (p < .05) and greater mobility control (p < .05) immediately after the intervention. Effects at 12 months included improved social function (p < .05) and mobility range (p < .05). The intervention had immediate but modest beneficial effects that diminished over time in the setting with no booster intervention.