Enhanced SAIL Program: Evaluation of an Evidence-based Fall Prevention Program for Community Dwelling Elders

Abstract

Aims: Evaluate the effectiveness of an enhanced version of the SAIL program on occupational performance, falls efficacy, motor agility and dynamic balance in community dwelling older adults.

Methods: A one-group pre-post design was implemented for older adults living in the surrounding community, and took place in the setting of a community rehabilitation hospital. Outcome measures used were: Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM); Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I); 8-Foot Up-and-Go; Biceps Curl Test; Chair Stand Test.

Results: Five of eight participants reported a clinically significant change using the COPM; Six of eight program participants reported an improvement in the FES-I. All participants showed improvement in the 8 Foot Up-and-Go and Chair Stand tests; and one participant showed improvement in the number of biceps curls.

Conclusions: The Enhanced SAIL positively impacted: lower extremity strength and overall agility, perceived occupational performance, and fall self-efficacy.

Keywords:

• Falls prevention
• falls program
• elderly
• SAIL program
• occupational therapy
• physical therapy