Expert recommendations for an online, fall-prevention exercise program for older adults

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction Uptake of fall-prevention programs by older adults prior to the COVID-19 pandemic was low. We identified a pre-pandemic need to develop an online, fall-prevention exercise program for community-dwelling older adults. Purpose The purpose of this qualitative study was to obtain recommendations from experts on exercise for fall prevention, fall prevention, and online education to inform the development of an online, fall-prevention exercise program for community-dwelling adults aged 65 years and older. Methods Three virtual focus groups were held to obtain recommendations from: 1) exercise experts (n = 4) on design of an exercise program intended to reduce falls among community-dwelling older adults, 2) fall-prevention experts (n = 6) on key considerations for fall prevention and transitioning to an online fall-prevention program, and 3) online education experts (n = 5) on online technical/design considerations. Data were analyzed using directed content analysis. Results Collectively, the experts recommended designing an online program that: 1) contained strengthening, balance, and stretching exercises; 2) was beta tested in older adults; 3) replicated a group dynamic; 4) included an instructional designer; 5) provided tailored feedback to participants; 6) made exercises portable/accessible across devices; 7) offered computer training; 8) monitored safety and exercise performance; 9) included strategies to sustain participant behavior; and 10) was delivered by health or fitness professionals. Conclusion This study generated expert recommendations to inform the development of an online, fall-prevention exercise program. Implementation of these recommendations has the potential to expand the reach of fall-prevention programs and protect the health and safety of older adults in a post-COVID-19 world.