The primary purpose of the Balance and Falls SIG is to provide a forum for the increase of knowledge and quality of practice for physical therapists in relation to older persons with balance problems and an increased risk for falling. The SIG uses various means to foster discussion and communication among its members. These include programs at CSM, articles in Gerinotes or other publications, and newsletters to members. Interested Section on Geriatrics members are encouraged to provide email addresses for communication.

Download the current SIG Standing Rules

Falls Free Coalition - State Policy Toolkit Advancing FallPrevention

• www.ncoa.org/fallspolicy

STEADI Toolkit for Fall Prevention coming
STEADI is being developed by the CDC and is almost ready for release.

• Once released (Late 2012), the entire STEADI toolkit will be available at this website
  http://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/Falls/steadi/index.html
• This toolkit is designed to help all medical providers meet the American Geriatrics Society (AGS) Fall Guidelines and effectively manage falls in their older adult patients. The STEADI begins with a self-administered questionnaire available as an educational pamphlet and is then followed up with discussion and further testing per the clinician's judgment.

American Geriatrics Society Guidelines for Fall Management.
Screening and Assessment

• Prevention of Falls Summary of Recommendations

Otago Exercise Program

• Otago is an individually tailored program of muscle strengthening and balance retraining exercises of increasing difficulty, combined with a walking program
• Training course outlines, location, dates

Steppin' On
Stepping On is one of 4 evidence based, fall prevention programs that is currently funded for dissemination and study by the CDC. http://www.steppingon.com/

• Stepping On is a 7 week series including one 2 hour class/week taught by peer leaders to groups of 8-12 older adults. Guest lectures are provided by PT, OT, PharmD's, and fire/police.
• The community based classes include physical exercise, education, and facilitated group discussion to help promote behavioral changes needed to decrease fall risk. Participants should be able to walk independently (cane OK) and safely perform simple standing exercises.
• Training information and course description, evidence based reference. http://wihealthyaging.org/stepping-on

• Staying Vertical: Balance and Falls Reduction (developed by the Balance and Falls Special Interest Group) Link