The Stroll Safe Randomized Controlled Trial: Program Effects on Falls Self-Efficacy

Objective: Outdoor falls can negatively impact the health and functional abilities of community-dwelling older adults. Although there are existing evidence-based programs for falls prevention, none specifically target outdoor falls. To fill this gap in research and practice, the Stroll Safe program was developed. Prior studies have examined outcomes for Stroll Safe related to knowledge of outdoor fall risks and safe strategy use. The purpose of this study was to examine outcomes related to outdoor falls self-efficacy. Design: In this cluster randomized controlled trial, we examined the effects of the Stroll Safe program on outdoor falls self-efficacy as per scores on the Outdoor Falls Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (OFSQ). Setting and Participants: The study was conducted in 8 naturally occurring retirement communities. Participants (N = 93) were community-dwelling older adults with a history of outdoor falls and/or who were fearful of falling outside. Methods: Linear mixed-effects models were used for the analyses. Results: The intervention group had a significantly higher OFSQ score post-intervention (P < .001), which persisted at the 6-week follow-up (P < .001). Four of the 5 items in the OFSQ showed the same behavior. Conclusions and Implications: Results reveal that the Stroll Safe program is effective in increasing outdoor falls self-efficacy building on previously established program benefits.