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King County Washington home

One Step Ahead Fall Prevention Program referral

We provide free fall prevention support for eligible King County residents age 50 and older. This program helps participants identify and reduce fall risks, make informed safety choices, and take practical steps to maintain their independence.

Submitting a Fall Prevention referral

Referrals may be submitted by healthcare providers, community partners, caregivers, family, friends, or individuals themselves.

➜ Submit a referral.

Who is eligible?

To be eligible for referral to the One Step Ahead Fall Prevention Program, individuals must meet all of the following criteria:

  • Be 50 years of age or older
  • Reside in King County, excluding the City of Seattle
  • Live independently and not in a nursing home, assisted living facility, adult family home or hospice
  • Able to walk, with or without an assistive device
  • Experienced a fall within the past 6 months that resulted in a 911 call

All criteria must be met to qualify for enrollment.

Don't meet all the eligibility criteria? A fall prevention phone consultation may be available to provide information, answer questions, and connect individuals with fall prevention resources.

What the program provides

Eligible participants receive a personalized in-home visit with a Program Health Educator who provides:

  • Fall risk assessment – A review of recent falls, medical history, mobility, and other factors that may increase the risk of falling.
  • Home safety assessment - Identification of potential hazards, such as loose rugs, poor lighting, uneven surfaces, and cluttered pathways.
  • Safety equipment - A limited selection of safety items may be provided or installed if appropriate, such as night lights, non slip mats, and tub grab bars. Equipment is based on individual needs and requires an evaluation from the Program Health Educator. Restrictions apply.
  • Fall Prevention education - Practical strategies to reduce fall risks, improve safety, and build confidence at home and during daily activities.
  • Community resources – Connections to local programs, services, and support that may help reduce fall risk and promote health and independence.
  • Personalized visit summary - A written summary of recommendations tailored to the participant’s home and individual needs.
  • Follow up support - A follow-up phone check in after the visit and a mailed satisfaction survey to gather feedback about the program and participant experience.

Who can refer

Referrals may be submitted by a range of trusted individuals or organizations connected to someone at risk of falling, including:

  • Healthcare providers
  • Community organizations
  • Caregivers, family, or friends
  • Individuals (self-referral)

If you are referring someone else: Please discuss the purpose of the referral with the individual, explain the services offered by the program, and confirm that they agree to be contacted. Active participation is important to the success of fall prevention efforts.

Please confirm that all eligibility criteria are met before submitting a referral.

All information shared during the referral process is kept confidential and used only for program purposes.

How to submit a referral

A referral can be submitted using any of the following methods:

Online: Complete the online referral form

Printable form: One Step Ahead Fall Prevention Program Referral Form (179 KB)

Email: fallprevention.ems@kingcounty.gov

Mail:

King County EMS Division
Attn: Fall Prevention
401 5th Avenue, Suite 1200
Seattle, WA 98104

Questions? Call: 206-263-8544

Language interpretation services are available upon request.

When submitting a referral, please provide as much information as possible about the individual’s recent fall, mobility concerns, and contact information. This information helps support timely follow-up.

What happens after a referral is submitted?

  1. Referral review

    A Program Health Educator will review the referral to determine eligibility.  The referred individual and the referring party, if different, will be contacted within 1 – 3 business days to discuss next steps. 

  2. Initial phone call

    • During the initial call, a Program Health Educator will: 
    • Review the referral and introduce the program 
    • Discuss recent falls, mobility, and safety concerns 
    • Gather additional background information 
    • Answer questions and address concerns 
    • Determine next steps and, if eligible, schedule an in-home visit 

  3. In-home visit

    An eligible participant will meet with a Program Health Educator for a personalized fall risk and home safety assessment at a mutually convenient time. 

  4. Scheduling

    Referrals are reviewed and scheduled in the order received. Visit dates depend on participant and Program Health Educator availability.

Program scope

The One Step Ahead Fall Prevention Program provides a comprehensive, education-focused approach to fall prevention. Participants receive practical information, evidence based strategies, and supportive guidance to help reduce fall risks and improve safety at home.

Program Health Educators are licensed Occupational Therapists (OT/OTA) and Physical Therapists (PT/PTA) who provide education-based fall prevention support. Services provided through this program are not prescribed therapy, clinical treatment, or medical care.

Program limitations

To help participants understand the services available, please note:

  • The program does not provide medical treatment, emergency response, or ongoing clinical care.
  • Safety devices and equipment are limited in quantity and availability. They are provided only when appropriate based on the home assessment.
  • Major home modifications, such as ramps, stair lifts, or structural changes are not included.
  • Mobility devices such as walkers or wheelchairs are not provided.
  • Services are based on eligibility, available resources, and the participant’s individual needs.