Comparing Ways to Reduce Bone Fractures and Injuries among Older Adults Who Have Fallen -- The WISE Study

After older adults fall and fracture a bone, regular exercise can decrease the risk of falls and help prevent another bone fracture.In this study, the research team compared two ways of reducing bone fractures from falls in adults ages 65 and older who had fallen and fractured a bone in the past:Exercise with coaching. Patients went to exercise classes for strength, balance, and walking. A trained volunteer led in-person group classes. Patients could also request to do classes at home with an exercise DVD. During the COVID-19 pandemic, in-person classes moved to a virtual format. A coach met with patients in person or by phone and encouraged them to exercise. Every six months, doctors received reports on the patients' progress. Usual care plus information. Patients received a list of exercises and information about how to prevent falls.