THE FACTS

Falls and fall-related injuries in older people are common and have negative effects on functional independence, social engagement and quality of life (Montero-Odasso 2022).  The estimated cost of falls-related injuries in Ireland, including primary, acute and social care costs, is project to exceed €2 billion by 2030 (Gannon 2008). The COVID -19 pandemic has undoubtably led to an increase in frailty and falls (Bailey et al, 2021).   

Many falls are preventable (Orton et al, 2021). Research has shown that exercise including strengthening and balance training is key to reducing falls (Sherrington et al, 2019).  To reduce falls, balance exercises must be challenging, strengthening exercise must be progressed, and the exercises must be individualised. People need to exercise three times a week safely, for at least 12 to 16 weeks, with a greater long-term changes seen with longer programmes (up to 24 weeks)

FALLS MANAGEMENT IN IRELAND

In 2008, the HSE published a National Strategy to Prevent Falls and Fractures in Ireland’s Aging Population (HSE 2008).  The population health improvement project AFFINITY (Activating Falls and Fracture Prevention in Ireland Together) was established in 2013 to coordinate a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to reducing harm from falls.  It monitored and supported early falls prevention programmes, provided change management resources and raised awareness with key stakeholders. However, a gap analysis study found there was only a limited amount of process and implementation data available.  

In order to improve evidence-based exercise availability, AFFINITY supported physiotherapy (HSE) and exercise professional (private / community providers) training. The physiotherapists and exercise professionals were trained by Later Life Training to become Postural Stability Instructors; qualified to deliver FaME.  

The Falls Management Exercise Programme (FaME) is a 24-week community-based group and home exercise programme led by qualified Postural Stability Instructors (PSIs).  It has been shown to reduce falls and well as improve physical activity levels, physical function and well-being.  Around 120 specialist instructors have been trained to deliver FaME. Our next step is to understand how we can support the sustainability and scaling up of the programme in Ireland.