DEVELOPMENT OF A FALL PREVENTION MODEL FOR THE ELDERLY IN THALE CHUPSORN SUBDISTRICT, MUEANG LOPBURI DISTRICT, LOPBURI PROVINCE

Abstract

Thailand has become a fully aging society, with a continuously increasing elderly population. Aging causes physical decline, increasing the risk of falls, which can lead to physical injuries, psychological effects, and loss of confidence in daily living. This research aimed to develop a fall prevention model for older adults. The study was conducted in three phases. The sample consisted of 15 elderly individuals at risk of falling who participated in a 12-week intervention. Tools included a fall prevention model, a balance ability assessment, and a fall risk assessment. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the dependent t-test. The results showed that participants had an average age of 73.46 years and BMI indicating overweight (mean = 27.33). Most had underlying diseases (86.67%) and took more than four medications (53.33%). Major risk factors were balance problems (86.67%) and visual impairments (53.33%). Most had not fallen in the past six months and lived in homes with floor heights under 1.5 meters. The fall prevention model included initial assessment, mastery experiences, observational learning, verbal encouragement, physical and emotional regulation, and environmental and assistive technology adjustments. Implementation was supported by local health officers and village health volunteers (VHVs). After the intervention, participants had significantly improved balance scores, increasing by 4.20 points (95% CI = 1.73–6.67, p < .001), and significantly decreased fall risk scores by 5.03 points (95% CI = 2.97–7.08, p < .001). The findings suggest that a structured fall prevention program, coupled with community support, can enhance physical ability and reduce fall risk among older adults.