The FIT pilot project was a falls prevention program targeted at frail, home-bound seniors.  The goal of the project was to identify and reduce modifiable risk factors (i.e.  postural hypotension, environmental hazards, the use of 4 or more medications, foot problems etc.) for falling in the frail elderly. The project was conducted in 2002-03 and targeted community-dwelling veterans and seniors with at least four risk factors for falling. A total of 60 participants completed the FIT program. To participate in the pilot project, the senior must have been ambulatory, medically stable, able to follow instructions, and have had ongoing formal or informal caregiver support. The program consisted of a series of scheduled home visits by a public health nurse and/or a community-based physiotherapist. The comprehensive assessment identified the modifiable risk factors and assisted in developing an intervention plan together with the client and caregiver. The client and caregiver were also instructed in the Home Support Exercise Program (HSEP) developed and evaluated at the Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging (CCAA). The program included six intervention visits over a period of 10 to 12 weeks.

 

A second phase of the FIT project will be implemented in the fall of 2005. To learn how to participate in this program or to learn more about FIT, call Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653

 

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