This guide has been prepared in recognition of the special role of states and local communities in reducing falls and fall-related injuries within the older adult population. It provides a compendium of practical tools, resources, and strategies to assist coalition building efforts. It also provides the framework, infrastructure, and guidance that states can share with local communities collaborating to implement fall prevention interventions.
Much has been written about effective group dynamics and engagement processes for creating and managing coalitions which will serve the reader well and should be reviewed as part of the preparation. A list of those resources is provided. This guide is more narrowly focused on fall prevention and how states have organized effective, sustainable fall prevention coalitions that are making a difference at the community level.