The effect of fall-prevention education on fall-related behaviors in older adults

AIM: This study aimed to examine the effect of a structured fall-prevention education program on safe fall-related behaviors among older adults. METHOD: The study was conducted using a pretest-posttest parallel-group randomized controlled design. A total of 66 older adults who attended a family health center in the Central Anatolia region of Türkiye and were classified as high risk according to the Morse Fall Risk Scale were included. The intervention group received an education program consisting of two sessions delivered through interactive presentations and question-answer discussions, while the control group received an informational brochure only. Data were collected using the Personal Information Form, the Morse Fall Risk Scale, and the Fall Behaviors Scale for Older Adults. RESULTS: A statistically significant increase was observed in fall behavior scores in the intervention group between the pretest and posttest assessments. In contrast, no significant difference was found between pretest and posttest scores in the control group. Between-group comparisons revealed that posttest scores of the intervention group were significantly higher than those of the control group. CONCLUSION: The structured and interactive education program was found to be effective in improving safe fall-related behaviors among older adults. Passive information-based approaches were insufficient to produce behavioral change, whereas nursing-based educational interventions that promote active participation were more effective. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT07499895- 2026/03/30- Retrospectively registered.