Older Adults' and Professionals' Attitudes Towards Stair-Fall Prevention Interventions

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Home Safety

Background:

• Stair falls pose a significant health risk to older adults aiming to age in place.
• Limited understanding exists regarding the real-world acceptability of stair-fall prevention interventions in home environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore older adults' and professionals' attitudes toward stair-fall prevention interventions.
• To identify barriers, facilitators, and priorities for implementing these interventions in home settings.

Main Methods:

• Sequential mixed-method design utilizing a survey of 359 community-dwelling older adults (aged 55+).
• Followed by focus groups with 8 older adults and 11 healthcare/housing professionals.

Main Results:

• Older adults recognize stair fall risks but lack awareness of specific interventions.
• Barriers include lack of awareness, cost, home alteration reluctance, and stigma.
• Facilitators include education, clear guidance, financial/practical support, personalization, social encouragement, and professional endorsement.
• Most acceptable interventions: education/skill training, improved lighting, and additional handrails.

Conclusions:

• Low-disruption, cost-effective, evidence-based, and professionally endorsed interventions are most likely to be accepted.
• Targeted educational strategies are needed to overcome adoption barriers for stair-fall prevention.