Evidence-based fall prevention program adaptations for remote delivery: Impacts on reach and access

Abstract

Evidence-based fall prevention programs are important for preventing injury and death among older adults. During the COVID-19 pandemic these programs were forced to cease in-person classes and pivot to remote delivery due to safety and social distancing guidelines. As new variants continue to arise and remote delivery continues to be used in many settings, it is important to investigate how the remote delivery adaptation is impacting reach and access for these important programs, and what future adaptations might be necessary to promote equitable access. We conducted interviews and surveys with staff involved in the remote delivery of these programs about changes they observed in the populations being reached. We found that remote delivery comes with unique barriers, but also can overcome barriers specific to in-person delivery and reach previously underserved populations.