RFAs: Scaling Evidence-Based Falls Prevention Programs (US)

The Scaling Evidence-Based Falls Prevention Programs initiative provides cooperative agreement funding to strengthen community-based fall prevention services for older adults and adults with disabilities. It supports evidence-based interventions, partnerships, education, evaluation systems, and innovation to reduce fall risks and improve health outcomes.

Total funding available is $1,500,000, with individual awards ranging from $250,000 to $500,000. Eligible applicants include government bodies, educational institutions, tribal organizations, housing authorities, and qualified nonprofit organizations.

Overview of the Funding Opportunity

The Scaling Evidence-Based Falls Prevention Programs initiative is designed to improve the delivery, reach, and effectiveness of community-based fall prevention programs.

It focuses on strengthening systems that protect:

• Older adults at risk of falls
• Adults with physical or developmental disabilities

The funding supports cooperative agreements that promote innovation, collaboration, and measurable health outcomes.

Purpose of the Program

The core purpose is to enhance public health systems that reduce falls and fall-related injuries.

Key goals include:

• Expanding evidence-based fall prevention programs
• Improving program quality and implementation
• Increasing community access to prevention services
• Supporting whole-person care approaches
• Building sustainable partnerships across sectors

Key Focus Areas

1. Evidence-Based Falls Prevention Programs

Applicants must implement scientifically validated fall prevention models that:

• Reduce fall risk
• Improve mobility and balance
• Strengthen independent living

2. Targeted Partnerships and Collaboration

Programs must work with:

• Healthcare providers
• Community organizations
• Local governments
• Disability support services

3. Innovation in Fall Prevention

Projects should introduce:

• New delivery models
• Technology-assisted interventions
• Community outreach strategies

4. Whole-Person Support Approach

Programs should address:

• Physical health
• Mental health
• Environmental safety
• Social support systems

5. Education and Resource Development

Grantees must:

• Create educational materials
• Conduct awareness campaigns
• Train caregivers and professionals

6. Best Practices and Knowledge Sharing

Projects are expected to:

• Document successful strategies
• Share outcomes with stakeholders
• Build scalable models for replication

7. Evaluation and Impact Measurement

Each funded project must:

• Design structured evaluation frameworks
• Track fall reduction outcomes
• Measure risk reduction and behavioral changes

Funding Details

Total Program Funding

• $1,500,000 available in total

Award Range

• Minimum: $250,000
• Maximum: $500,000 per project

Funding Type

• Cooperative agreements (requiring active collaboration with the funding agency)

Eligible Applicants

The program is open to a wide range of public and nonprofit institutions.

Eligible Entities

• State governments
• Public and state-controlled higher education institutions
• Private institutions of higher education
• City or township governments
• County governments
• Special district governments
• Independent school districts
• Public housing authorities
• Indian housing authorities
• Federally recognized Native American tribal governments
• Native American tribal organizations (non-federally recognized)
• Nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status (excluding higher education institutions)

Program Outcomes and Expected Impact

Funded projects are expected to achieve measurable improvements in public health and community wellbeing.

Key Outcomes

• Reduced incidence of falls among older adults and disabled individuals
• Improved community-based support systems
• Increased adoption of evidence-based interventions
• Better coordination between healthcare and community services
• Enhanced awareness of fall risk prevention strategies

How the Program Works

Implementation Process

1. Selected applicants receive cooperative agreement funding
2. Programs are implemented in community settings
3. Partners collaborate to deliver interventions
4. Educational resources are developed and distributed
5. Data is collected for evaluation
6. Outcomes are analyzed and reported

Required Components

• Evidence-based intervention delivery
• Strong community partnerships
• Education and outreach strategy
• Monitoring and evaluation framework
• Knowledge-sharing plan

Why This Program Matters

Falls are a major public health concern for:

• Older adults
• People with disabilities

This program matters because it:

• Prevents injuries and hospitalizations
• Reduces healthcare costs
• Improves independence and quality of life
• Strengthens community health systems
• Supports aging populations safely

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Application Mistakes

• Submitting proposals without evidence-based program models
• Weak or unclear evaluation plans
• Lack of defined partnerships
• Ignoring disability-inclusive approaches
• Overlooking sustainability planning

Strategy Tips

• Use proven fall prevention frameworks (e.g., balance training, home safety programs)
• Include measurable outcomes
• Build multi-sector partnerships early
• Design strong data collection systems
• Focus on real-world implementation feasibility

Key Concepts Explained

Evidence-Based Fall Prevention Programs

These are interventions supported by research that reduce fall risk through:

• Exercise programs
• Home hazard assessments
• Medication review
• Vision and mobility support

Cooperative Agreements

A funding mechanism where:

• The funding agency actively participates in project development and oversight
• Collaboration is required throughout implementation

Whole-Person Approach

A holistic model addressing:

• Physical health
• Emotional wellbeing
• Environmental safety
• Social support networks

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the purpose of this funding opportunity?

It aims to strengthen community-based evidence-based programs that reduce falls among older adults and adults with disabilities.

2. Who can apply for this grant?

Government agencies, educational institutions, tribal organizations, housing authorities, and eligible nonprofit organizations.

3. How much funding is available?

Total funding is $1,500,000, with individual awards ranging from $250,000 to $500,000.

4. What type of programs are supported?

Programs that implement evidence-based fall prevention strategies and community interventions.

5. Is evaluation required?

Yes. All funded projects must include a structured evaluation plan to measure impact and outcomes.

6. Are partnerships required?

Yes. Collaboration with community and healthcare partners is a key requirement.

7. What populations are prioritized?

Older adults and adults with disabilities who are at higher risk of falls.

Conclusion

The Scaling Evidence-Based Falls Prevention Programs initiative is a structured funding opportunity aimed at reducing fall-related risks through evidence-based, community-driven interventions. By supporting collaboration, education, innovation, and evaluation, it strengthens public health systems and improves the safety, independence, and wellbeing of vulnerable populations.