Better5 is grounded in evidence-based gerontology. We don't guess what works for older adults — we know, because the data tells us.
Associate Professor, Gerontology
Dr. Theodore Cosco, Associate Professor at Simon Fraser University's Department of Gerontology, is conducting an active study on Better5's impact on fall risk reduction in older adults.
The study follows participants across multiple senior living facilities, tracking key indicators including fall frequency, balance confidence, and self-reported quality of life. Early findings align with the broader evidence base: structured, consistent exercise programming meaningfully reduces fall risk in older adults.
Results are expected to be published and presented at the BC Care Providers Association Annual Conference. Better5 is the only senior fitness program of its kind currently under active academic study in Canada.
Simon Fraser University · Department of Gerontology · SFU Harbour Centre, Vancouver BC
This isn't a minor inconvenience — it's one of the biggest public health challenges in aging populations.
The evidence for exercise-based fall prevention is among the strongest in all of gerontology research.
"Exercise programmes targeting balance and functional training reduce the rate of falls in older people living in the community. The evidence for this is substantial and consistent."
Programs focused on balance and gait training show the largest reduction in fall rates — especially when practiced at least 3 times per week. Better5's Balance pillar is designed precisely around this evidence.
Combining balance with functional strength training further reduces fall risk — and improves confidence, which is independently predictive of fall prevention. Residents who feel strong move more carefully and confidently.
Research consistently shows that regular, moderate-intensity exercise delivers better fall prevention outcomes than sporadic high-intensity sessions. Better5's daily 20–30 minute format is specifically designed to maximize consistent participation.
Participants in group exercise programs show significantly better long-term adherence than those exercising alone. Social accountability and the group energy are key drivers — which is why Better5 is designed as a group experience, not individual content.
Good research only matters if it reaches real people. Here's how we do that.
Every session in Better5 is built around the exercise types, durations, and progressions shown to be most effective in peer-reviewed literature.
Lab conditions and real facilities are different. Better5 is built for the rec room, not the gym — no equipment, minimal space, and led by staff, not fitness experts.
Monthly participation reports help facilities document resident activity — useful for care planning, family communication, and demonstrating program value.
As research evolves and new evidence emerges, Better5 programming is updated. You don't need to follow the literature — we do that for you.
Research outcomes translate into real, tangible results for your residents, your team, and your facility.
Facilities with structured fall prevention programming report measurable reductions in fall-related incidents — which matters for your residents, your staff, and your liability exposure.
When families know their loved one is in a research-backed fitness program, it builds trust. It's a talking point in tours and a comfort to families from day one.
Monthly participation reports feed directly into resident care documentation — showing consistent engagement with a clinically grounded wellness program.
When you're asked about your fall prevention programming, "we use a research-backed program from SFU" is a very different answer than "we do some exercises."
We'll send you a summary of the evidence base and an overview of the SFU study. No fluff — just the research.
Download the Research Brief →