A feasibility study and development of “capture the fracture” programme among older people in preventing osteoporosis and fragility fracture

Abstract

Background: The proportion of the older people population in Malaysia is increasing, leading to a growing prevalence of age-related health challenges, including musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory issues, and other health-related problems. Addressing these issues is critical, particularly in preventing osteoporosis, fractures, and falls among older adults. However, the current approach in preventing osteoporosis and fracture is still inadequate and needs further health education programmes to be delivered within the community. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the 'Capture the Fracture Programme' in improving knowledge, attitudes, practices, and fall risk among older adults. The study also examines changes in these variables between baseline and six weeks post-intervention, as well as their relationship with the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test outcomes. Method: This study was divided into two phases; in Phase 1 a systematic literature search was conducted to identify the evidence of the intervention’s components. Phase 2 was a quasi- experimental study conducted at the Pusat Aktiviti Warga Emas (PAWE) Maran Centre with a sample of 66 older adults, accounting for an anticipated 20% dropout rate. Participants completed informed consent and baseline questionnaires following a study briefing. Descriptive statistics and Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) were utilised for data analysis using SPSS version 25.0. Results: The results demonstrated a significant improvement in knowledge (p<0.001), attitude (p<0.001), practice (p<0.001), and reduction in fall risk among older adults from baseline to post- intervention (p<0.05). The knowledge (p=0.430), attitudes (p=0.224), and practices (p=0.950) of older adults did not significantly influence their risk of falls. The Timed Up and Go (TUG) test demonstrated a significant reduction in fall risk following the intervention (p<0.05). Conclusion: The present study provided preliminary support in preventing the issue of osteoporosis and fragility fracture among older people in Malaysia. Further research is required to investigate and explore the complex relationships between these factors and the long-term effectiveness of such interventions. Keywords: Falls, Fracture, Older people, Osteoporosis, Quasi-experimental study.