Development of a Learning Process Model to Prevent Falls Risk Group in Older Adults at Ban Dong Yang Noi Subdistrict Health Promotion Hospital, Wiang Sa-at Subdistrict, Phayakkhaphumiphisai District, Maha Sarakham Province

Background and Aims: Preventing falls in older adults is critical because they are a leading cause of injury, loss of independence, and decreased quality of life. By addressing fall risks, we can reduce hospitalizations while improving older adults' overall well-being and mobility. This research and development aimed to 1) study the context of care and problems related to fall prevention in older adults at risk of falling and 2) develop, trial, and evaluate the learning process for fall prevention in the elderly at risk of falling at Ban Dong Yang Noi Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospital, Phayakkhaphumiphisai District, Maha Sarakham Province. Methodology: The research consists of four stages from October 2023 to September 2024; Phase 1: Study the situation and problems; Phase 2: Create a learning process model to prevent falls in the elderly at risk; Phase 3: Test the model; and Phase 4: Evaluate the results. Data were collected using in-depth interviews, group discussions, and questionnaires, which were analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired t-tests, and content analysis. Results: The results showed that the majority of the samples were women with an average age of 61 years, with underlying diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. The risk factors and self-care behaviors of older adults at risk of falling are fear of falling, vision problems, and reduced muscle strength. The most common risk behaviors are using wheelchairs and not exercising. The risky environments are slippery bathroom floors and insufficient lighting. The learning program resulted in better healthcare behaviors of older people, especially regarding food. The health team and stakeholders were delighted with the activity promotion model, and the service quality of staff were the most satisfied. Conclusion: Preventing falls in older adults is critical because they are a leading cause of injury, loss of independence, and decreased quality of life. By addressing fall risks, we can reduce hospitalizations while improving older adults' overall well-being and mobility.