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P07-4 Keep Exercising & Stay Steady: Co-design of an Exercise Maintenance Intervention for People Exiting Falls Prevention Programmes

jech · 2026-04-17 · canonical JSON source

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Background Falls management exercise (FaME) programmes, led by postural stability instructors, improve physical function and reduce falls risk. However, older adults rarely continue exercising after programmes end, resulting in lost improvements and increased falls risk. This study aimed to co-design an exercise maintenance intervention acceptable for older adults to receive and service providers to deliver.Methods In consultation with older adults exiting FaME programmes and professional stakeholders, the intervention was developed using an iterative three-stage co-design approach. In stages 1 and 2, researchers facilitated six round-table discussions on evidence-based intervention components. Stakeholders voted on component inclusion. Discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed thematically. In stage 1, voting results were organised hierarchically and themes were used to develop an intervention framework. Stage 2 consultations scrutinised and voted on the framework components using the APEASE criteria (acceptability, practicality, effectiveness, affordability, side effects, equality). Stage 3 developed the intervention schedule and delivery plan in collaboration with a local FaME service provider.Results Stage 1: 9 older adults, 6 falls rehabilitation professionals and a patient and public involvement member attended a consultation. Popular intervention components were: local exercise service information (88%), motivational strategies (81%), follow-up group meetings (69%), education (63%), digital strength and balance app (Keep-On-Keep-Up) (44%) and exercise booklets (44%). Stage 2: 9 professional stakeholders and 2 older adult representatives attended consultations. Stage 2 consultations determined the intervention should include follow-up group sessions containing motivational strategies, education, local exercise service information, exercise practice and home exercise plans delivered by postural stability instructors. Supporting tools included functional Fitness MOT, physical activity monitoring tools, exercise booklets and the Keep-On-Keep-Up app. Stage 3: developed 8 group behaviour change sessions delivered over 8 months.Conclusion Through rigorous co-design, stakeholder recommendations informed an exercise maintenance intervention ready for testing in a feasibility study.