Fall prevention program for Zuni elders

Zuni Health Initiative- Sub Study - Standing Strong in Tribal Communities: Assessing Elder Falls Disparity

Not applicable Interventional University of New Mexico · NCT04876729

This study is testing a special exercise program designed for Zuni elders to help them stay strong and balanced, so they can prevent falls and continue living safely in their community.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages65 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of New Mexico Academic / other
Locations1 site (Zuni Pueblo, New Mexico)
Trial IDNCT04876729 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to address the high incidence of falls among Zuni elders by implementing a culturally tailored Otago Exercise Program delivered by Community Health Representatives. The program will include fall risk screening and physical therapist consultations to empower participants and their families in preventing falls. By adapting the intervention to fit the cultural context of the Zuni community, the study seeks to improve strength and balance among participants and reduce fall-related injuries. The overall goal is to enhance the ability of elders to age in place within their community.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are Zuni tribal members aged 65 years and older who are at elevated risk for falls.

Not a fit: Patients who are terminally ill, on dialysis, or unable to walk may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly reduce fall-related injuries and improve the quality of life for Zuni elders.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success with culturally tailored interventions for fall prevention, indicating potential for positive outcomes in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Zuni tribal members aged 65 years and older who demonstrate elevated fall risk according to 2 or more of the following test outcomes: (1) Timed Up and Go \>12 seconds; (2) 30 Second Chair Stand Test below age and gender norms; (3) Inability to complete the Four Stage Balance Test; (4) Four or more positive responses on the CDC Stay Independent: Check Your Risk for Falling; or (5) history of 2 or more falls during past year or one injurious fall during past year

Exclusion Criteria:

(1)Self-reported diagnosis of terminal cancer in the last 6 months; (2) Currently on dialysis; (3) Mini-Cog score of 0 to 1; (4) Unwillingness to consent to participate; (5) Unable to walk with or without an assistive device; or (6) Legally blind.

Where this trial is running

Zuni Pueblo, New Mexico

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions FallAmerican IndiansZuni IndiansFalls ScreeningOtago Exercise programSTEADI toolkitOlder adultFalls Prevention
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.