# Floor-hugging Intervention: A Perspective on Floor Exposure and After-Fall Contingency Intervention

## TL;DR

This paper proposes a new intervention called Floor-hugging to reduce fear of falling by increasing floor exposure and teaching post-fall strategies.

## Contribution

The novel Floor-hugging intervention combines exposure therapy and after-fall contingency planning to address fear of falling.

## Key findings

- Limited floor exposure and lack of post-fall strategies may increase fear of falling.
- The Floor-hugging intervention offers a framework to reduce fear through guided exposure and practical recovery techniques.
- The approach is grounded in the Uncertainty and Anticipation model for psychological and behavioral impact.

## Abstract

The fear of falling is a pressing public health issue, yet current interventions often fall short in addressing it effectively. As a result, there is a need for innovative interventions that go beyond symptom relief to address the underlying causes. From this standpoint, we propose that limited exposure to floors and a lack of post-fall contingencies may contribute to the uncertainty that amplifies the fear of falling, particularly in fall prone populations. We explore the theoretical underpinnings of this hypothesis and propose a framework based on the Uncertainty and Anticipation model to elucidate potential connections. Building upon this, we introduce the Floor-hugging intervention—a two-part strategy designed to confront these challenges. Firstly, we propose gradual exposure to different floor scenarios through guided imagery to diminish fear by familiarizing individuals with such situations. Secondly, we advocate for the adoption of evidence-based ways to get up from the floor for developing after fall contingencies. We delve into the theoretical framework supporting our approach and its potential to reduce the fear of falling while improving physical, social, and psychological well-being. Additionally, we outline prospective outcome measures to comprehensively assess the impact of the intervention across biopsychosocial domains. This perspective aims to stimulate discussion on the potential role of floor exposure and post-fall strategies in reducing the fear of falling, while also advocating for innovative interventions to empower and protect fall-prone populations.