Factors influencing fall prevention programmes across three regions of the UK: the challenge of implementing and spreading the Falls Management Exercise (FaME) programme in a complex landscape

Jodi P Ventre, Fay Manning, Aseel Mahmoud, Grace Brough, Stephen Timmons, Helen Hawley-Hague, Dawn A Skelton, Victoria Goodwin, Chris Todd, Denise Kendrick, Pip Logan, Elizabeth Orton

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Abstract
Background

The occurrence of falls in adults 65+ years remains a common and costly issue worldwide. There is current evidence to suggest that falls can be prevented using evidence-based strength and balance interventions, such as the six-month Falls Management Exercise (FaME) programme. Perspectives of multiple key partners and providers of the FaME programme could inform future implementation and fall prevention strategies.
Methods
Partners and providers involved in local community fall prevention pathways were purposefully recruited from three geographical areas across the UK. Semistructured interviews were conducted to gain a broad understanding of factors affecting the adoption, implementation and spread of FaME. Data were analysed using an inductive thematic approach and mapped to the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR).
Results
Data from 25 participant interviews and document analysis revealed 11 themes organised within five CFIR domains—the innovation (3), outer setting (3), inner setting (1), characteristics of individuals (1) and process (2). Conclusion
The adoption, implementation and spread of FaME into community settings is complex and faces multiple health system challenges. For adoption and implementation to be facilitated, FaME programmes must demonstrate effectiveness and fit the local needs of those receiving the intervention. For spread to occur, influential decision-makers and funders must support wider programme rollout whilst also securing sufficient expert capacity to deliver the programme and ensure monitoring is in place to determine effectiveness of provision for older adults.
Original languageEnglish
JournalAge and Ageing
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 28 Mar 2025

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