Exploring the PREVENT Model: Can It Stop Falls in Long-Term Care?

Falls are a big problem for older adults living in long-term care homes. About half of them fall each year, and hip fractures are a common result. Research shows that combining different strategies can help reduce falls and fractures, but putting these plans into action isn't always easy. That's where the PREVENT model comes in. This approach focuses on diet, exercise, making homes safer, using hip protectors, and reviewing medications to help at-risk residents. A recent study looked at how well this model worked in three long-term care homes in Ontario. Researchers wanted to see if the model was practical to use and if it improved healthcare providers' knowledge and prescribing habits for fracture prevention.

They found that while there were some challenges, like confusion between fall and fracture prevention strategies and worries about medication side effects, the model did lead to better knowledge and more prescriptions for fracture prevention. Implementing the model took time, with local champions needing training and support to lead the effort. Overall, the PREVENT model shows promise but needs some tweaks to work smoothly.

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