Four Smart Steps: Fall Prevention for Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Falls are associated with enormous costs in morbidity and early mortality, as well as loss of safe, independent lifestyles for community-dwelling older adults. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to implement an author-designed, easy-to-remember guide to fall prevention for community-dwelling older adults and enhance their awareness and knowledge of fall risks in the home. A Four Smart Steps Fall Prevention program (exercise, eye exams, home safety, and primary care visits) presented fall prevention education for community-dwelling older adults. The project was implemented at a senior center by registered nurses and evaluated through an anonymous questionnaire. The desired outcome was an increase in safety awareness and knowledge of fall prevention for community-dwelling older adults. Community-dwelling older adults with enhanced education on fall prevention will be more likely to be able to live independently within a safe environment.