Qualitative Evaluation of Interdisciplinary Service Learning Experience to Assess and Manage Fall Risk in Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Abstract

Aim: This case study reports on the planning and implementation of a fall risk assessment and prevention activity for older adults offered in multiple community settings by health professional faculty and students. Background: In the US, the percentage of adults 65 and older who fell was more than 29% in 2018. Among states, Arkansas ranks 48th with 35.2% of older adults reporting a fall (CDC Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 2018). The desired outcomes of the interprofessional service learning (SL) project were to (1) Improve student understanding of and satisfaction with interdisciplinary learning, (2) Increase the number of older adults assessed for fall risk, (3) provide personalized fall prevention interventions, and (4) Increase uptake of fall prevention strategies by older adults. Methods: Four senior centers in Northwest Arkansas hosted a fall prevention awareness day planned and implemented by faculty in the departments of nursing, public health, physical therapy, exercise science, dietary, and social work in two universities. Materials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Stopping Elderly Accidents Deaths and Injuries (STEADI) initiative were used to train students as part of a SL opportunity. Results: Students completed fall screenings, risk assessments, and referrals on 49 older adults in the four senior activity and wellness centers. Conclusions: Based on our experience, an interprofessional education (IPE) activity focused on fall prevention in older adults is feasible. We recommend planning for the event far enough in advance that the experience can be included in the curriculum for students in the various disciplines. We also recommend that students be actively involved in the planning and implementation of the event.