Steady Strides for Falling

(SteadyStrides Trial)

Overseen By Levan Atanelov, MD

Age: 65+

Sex: Any

Trial Phase: Academic

Sponsor: Steady Strides: Fall Prevention and Stroke Rehabilitation Medical Institute

Disqualifiers: Wheelchair use, Long-term care, others

No Placebo Group All trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: 1

What You Need to Know Before You Apply

What is the purpose of this trial?

This trial tests a new approach called the Steady Strides Fall Prevention Protocol to determine if it can better prevent falls in older adults compared to usual care provided by doctors. Falls often result in serious injuries, and the study aims to identify the most effective prevention method. The trial seeks individuals who are 65 or older, have experienced at least two falls in the past six months, and can walk and drive independently. Participants must live in a community setting and speak English fluently. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research that could improve fall prevention strategies for older adults.

Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

What prior data suggests that the Steady Strides Fall Prevention Protocol is safe for older adults?

Research has shown that the Steady Strides Fall Prevention Protocol helps prevent falls in older adults. Although data is limited, it suggests that strategies like the STEADI approach in primary care can reduce fall-related hospital visits. The Steady Strides program builds on this by offering a structured plan led by physiatrists to help older adults maintain stability.

A review of past participants in the Steady Strides program revealed that many engaged in activities to make their homes safer, a key part of reducing fall risks. While detailed information on side effects or adverse events is not provided, the program's focus on safety and prevention emphasizes minimizing risks. Participants often find the activities manageable, with no major safety concerns reported. ^{1 2 3 4 5}

Why are researchers excited about this trial?

Researchers are excited about the Steady Strides Fall Prevention Protocol because it offers a proactive approach to reducing falls among older adults. Unlike standard care, which largely relies on assessments and recommendations based on the CDC's STEADI tool, Steady Strides focuses on a comprehensive intervention strategy. This protocol likely includes tailored exercises, environmental modifications, and personalized education, aiming to directly enhance balance and safety. By addressing multiple factors that contribute to falls, Steady Strides has the potential to significantly improve outcomes and quality of life for those at risk.

What evidence suggests that the Steady Strides Fall Prevention Protocol is effective for preventing falls in older adults?

Research has shown that the Steady Strides Fall Prevention Protocol, which participants in this trial may receive, helps reduce falls in older adults. One study found that people in the Steady Strides program experienced fewer falls over six months, averaging 1.89 falls compared to 4.59 falls in those not in the program. A doctor specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation organizes and leads the program. It focuses on exercises that improve balance and strength. These exercises are known to enhance mobility and reduce injuries from falls. Overall, evidence suggests that Steady Strides can significantly help keep older adults safer. ^{1 3 5 6 7}

Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?

This trial is for community-dwelling adults aged 65 or older who can speak and understand English, drive, walk at least 10 feet with or without a cane or walker (but not wheelchair users), make their own medical decisions, and have had at least two falls in the past six months.

Inclusion Criteria

I live at home, not in a hospital or long-term care facility.

I can walk at least 10 feet on my own and make my own medical decisions.

I can speak, read, and understand English fluently.

Timeline for a Trial Participant

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Intervention

Participants receive the Steady Strides Fall Prevention Protocol or standard care for fall prevention

2 months

1 visit (in-person) at baseline, 1 visit (in-person) at 2 months

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for falls and related outcomes after the intervention

6 months

Monthly assessments

What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?

Interventions

• Steady Strides Fall Prevention Protocol

Trial Overview The study compares the Steady Strides Fall Prevention Protocol—a structured physiatry-based program—with standard care given by primary care providers to prevent falls among older adults living in the community.

How Is the Trial Designed?

Group I: Steady Strides Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

Steady Strides Fall Prevention Protocol. See below for more detail.

Group II: Standard of Care Active Control 1 Intervention

Participants in the control arm will receive a one-time assessment by a trained research assistant at baseline and once more at 2 month follow up. Research assistant will measure and document the specified demographic and clinical variables to be compared between the control and intervention groups. The usual care will be provided as per the primary care provider's discretion. Providers will be advised to complete the CDC's STEADI (Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths, and Injuries) tool via CDC's training portal.

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

Steady Strides: Fall Prevention and Stroke Rehabilitation Medical Institute

Lead Sponsor

Citations

1. clinicaltrials.gov clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT07092176

Steady Stride Fall Prevention Protocol vs Standard of Care This is a research study to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of the structured physiatry-based Steady Strides Fall Prevention Protocol compared to the ...

2. scivisionpub.com scivisionpub.com/pdfs/efficacy-of-steady-strides-a-structured-physiatristled-intervention-for-reducing-falls-in-highrisk-ambulatory-communitydwelling-ol-3062.pdf

A Structured Physiatrist-Led Intervention for Reducing Falls in ... Steady Strides is the first documented structured physiatrist led fall prevention protocol. Results of our retrospective chart review.

3. researchgate.net researchgate.net/publication/379966890_Efficacy_of_Steady_Strides_A_Structured_Physiatrist-Led_Intervention_for_Reducing_Falls_in_High-Risk_Ambulatory_Community-Dwelling_Older_Adults_An_Observational_Cohort_Study

(PDF) Efficacy of Steady Strides: A Structured Physiatrist- ... Results: Steady Strides participants had statistically lower number of falls at 6 months compared to non-participants (mean 4.59 vs 1.89, p<0. ...

4. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10435089/

Effectiveness of exercise interventions on fall prevention in ... Physical exercises are effective in improving the components of balance, lower extremity strength, mobility, and reducing falls and fall-related injuries.

5. withpower.com withpower.com/trial/phase-falls-prevention-9-2025-d72df

Steady Strides for Falling · Info for Participants This is a research study to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of the structured physiatry-based Steady Strides Fall Prevention Protocol compared to the ...

6. cdc.gov cdc.gov/steadi/index.html

STEADI - Older Adult Fall Prevention The STEADI initiative was created for healthcare providers who treat older adults who are at risk of falling, or who may have fallen in the past.

7. steadystridesmd.com steadystridesmd.com/fall-prevention-education

Fall Prevention Education I Steady Strides If you fell twice this year or once with a traumatic fall, you are at HIGH risk of falls. · Stay active to prevent falls. · Have your regular vision, hearing and ...