The impact of a training program for domestic workers in preventing fall of older people in the community

10.30207/AHLA.202312.0026

Wong, C.T.T.

domestic workers ； DWS ； fall prevention training program ； older persons

The Proceeding of the 9th AHLA International Health Literacy Conference: Health Literacy and Social Resilience

2023（2023 / 12 / 01）

28 - 28

英文

Background: Fall is one of the major causes of morbidity in older persons, which decreases their quality of life and increases health care costs. Globally, about one third of community-dwelling older persons aged 65 or above fall every year. In 2020, about 350,000 domestic workers (DWs) were employed in Hong Kong and more than 20% of them are responsible for taking care of the older persons at home. However, there are scanty training resources provided for the DWs in preventing fall of older persons they are caring for at home. The purpose of the study and question addressed was to investigate the effects of a training program on the knowledge of, preventive measures adopted, and the work stress of domestic workers relating to fall risk of older person they are caring for. Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore and evaluate the overall effect of this program on domestic workers, and on their knowledge and practice, to reduce fall risks of older persons in the community. Method: Thirty-five domestic workers caring for one older people aged 65 years old at home were recruited from a DW Community Centre for joining the fall preventive training program. The outcomes were measured at baseline, at the end and at 3 months after completion of the training program. Results: There were increase of knowledge and preventive measures related to fall risk, and reduction of work stress level of DWs. The feasibility and acceptability of the training program were reflected by full enrolment within one week with over 95% attendance and completion at three months. Conclusion: Training program in reducing fall risk and preventing fall of older persons was generally accepted by DWs. The preliminary effects of this training will provide health professionals with information on how best to promote the practices of domestic workers on preventing falls of older persons in the community.