Creating a home therapy to help prevent falls in older adults

Development of an In-Home Sensory Training Therapy to Mitigate Falls Risk Among the Elderly

['FUNDING_SBIR_2'] · SENAPTEC INC. · NIH-10922420

This study is testing a special pair of glasses that help older adults improve their balance and prevent falls by training their brains to use different senses, making it easier for them to stay steady during everyday activities.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_SBIR_2']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSENAPTEC INC. (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Beaverton, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10922420 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a sensory training therapy using innovative stroboscopic eyewear designed to help older adults improve their balance and reduce the risk of falls. The eyewear intermittently occludes visual input, encouraging the brain to rely on different sensory modalities for better coordination and stability. Participants will use the eyewear during daily activities, and previous studies have shown that even short sessions can lead to significant improvements in motor performance. The project aims to modify the eyewear for prescription use and enhance its functionality in low-light environments, making it suitable for home use.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those aged 85 and above, who have experienced balance issues or are at risk of falls.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 or those without any balance deficits may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce fall-related injuries and improve the overall quality of life for older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar sensory training approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Beaverton, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.