Developing an evidence-based fall prevention curriculum for community health workers

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Gerontology
• Health Education

Background:

• Falls are a significant threat to older adults' health and independence.
• Community Health Workers/Promotores (CHW/P) are vital in delivering health education in diverse communities.
• Existing fall prevention programs often lack culturally tailored approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development of an evidence-based, bilingual fall prevention curriculum for CHW/P.
• To outline the rationale and methods for involving CHW/P in curriculum design.
• To provide a framework for disseminating and utilizing the CHW/P fall prevention curriculum.

Main Methods:

• A collaborative approach involving CHW/P and content experts in curriculum development.
• Informal focus groups with CHW/P to guide content.
• Development and pilot testing of bilingual, in-person training modules.
• Incorporation of health behavior change theories and tailored communication strategies.

Main Results:

• Three distinct fall prevention modules were developed and refined based on pilot testing.
• The curriculum covers fall risk factors, prevention strategies, communication techniques, and behavior change.
• Modules are designed for in-person training and include continuing education unit approval.

Conclusions:

• CHW/P play a crucial role in implementing effective fall prevention programs for older adults.
• The developed curriculum is evidence-based, culturally appropriate, and adaptable for personalized health communication.
• This initiative contributes to the literature on CHW/P-led health interventions and fall prevention strategies.