Effects of an individual and family self-management of fall prevention programme on balance ability and fall-related self-efficacy among Chinese poststroke individuals: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Abstract

Introduction: Poststroke individuals have a high incidence of falls during the first months after discharge. The factors contributing to falls in poststroke patients are multifaceted, with balance deficits being the most prominent. Fall-related self-efficacy has also been identified as a key factor influencing the effectiveness of fall prevention interventions. Additionally, family members play a crucial role in fall prevention by providing support, supervision and assistance with mobility and daily activities. While previous studies support the potential benefits of a fall prevention programme for poststroke individuals, further evidence is needed to confirm their effectiveness. Building on the positive outcomes of self-management (SM) interventions in reducing falls across diverse populations, this study aims to evaluate the effects of an individual and family SM (IFSM) fall prevention programme on balance ability and fall-related self-efficacy among poststroke individuals.

Methods and analysis: This study will be a two-arm, single-blind, pre-post test randomised controlled trial. The target sample will consist of 60 poststroke adults with moderate severity and their primary family members. The intervention group will receive the IFSM fall prevention programme, which consists of 10 weekly sessions. The main components of the programme are exercise, home environment assessment, assistive technology, medication review and safety during daily activities. The control group will receive usual care but will not participate in any specific intervention. Primary outcomes-balance ability and fall-related self-efficacy-will be assessed at baseline and week 8 after discharge. Secondary outcomes will include the number of falls and fall-related injuries.

Ethics and dissemination: Ethical approval was obtained from the Research Ethics Committees of the Faculty of Nursing, Chiang Mai University and the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University. The results will be disseminated to poststroke individuals and their families through workshops; to healthcare professionals via professional training and meetings; and to researchers via conferences and publications.

Trial registration number: NCT06577662.

Keywords: Family; Randomized Controlled Trial; Self-Management; Stroke.

Figure 1. Conceptual framework of the individual and family self-management of fall prevention programme.

Figure 2. Study schedule. BBS, Berg Balance Scale; FES-I, Falls Efficacy Scale-International; IFSM, individual and family self-management.