Finding ways to reduce 911 calls for falls among older adults with cognitive impairments
Official title: Transformative Solutions for Reducing Frequent 911 Fall Calls in the Homes of Patients with Cognitive Impairments
Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-10911382 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to help older adults, especially those with memory issues, by finding ways to spot who might be at risk of falling and creating plans to keep them safe at home, so they don’t have to call 911 as often.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 30, 2021 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $240,566 |
| NIH project number | 5K76AG068435-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10911382 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults with cognitive impairments who are at risk of falling.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have cognitive impairments or are not at risk of falls may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing the rising number of 911 calls related to falls among older adults, particularly those with cognitive impairments. It aims to develop a systematic approach to identify individuals at high risk of falling and implement preventive strategies. By utilizing a machine learning model that considers various factors related to frailty and the environment, the project seeks to improve the management of fall incidents and reduce unnecessary emergency responses. Patients may benefit from early identification and tailored interventions that could prevent falls and enhance their safety at home.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the number of emergency calls and improve the safety and quality of life for older adults at risk of falls.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using predictive models and preventive strategies for fall management, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio State University
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Quatman, Carmen — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Quatman, Carmen
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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SmartGait: a smartphone AI tool to predict fall risk for older adults
A smartphone app uses AI to analyze a simple gait test and predict when a person may fall, helping clinicians tailor prevention for older adults.
-
Reducing Fall Risk with Hip Hip Abductor Stimulation During Balance Training
This project tests whether using electrical stimulation on the hip abductors during balance training helps older veterans improve balance and reduce fall risk.
-
Real-life Dual-Task Training for Older Adults at Risk to Fall
A pilot program tests a six-week real-life dual-task training program to help older adults reduce fall risk while doing everyday activities.
-
Smartphone coaching to prevent falls after stroke and train researchers
A smartphone-based coaching tool is being developed to help stroke survivors move more safely and reduce fall risk, with training opportunities for students at a major technical university.
-
STEADI-based Fall Prevention in Assisted Living Facilities
A plan to test a step-by-step fall-prevention program in eight assisted living facilities to see if it reduces falls, how well it works in real settings, and whether it makes economic sense.
-
Preventing Falls in Older Adults Using Floor Vibrations to Detect Falls and Gait Changes
A new approach aims to detect falls and gait changes in people aged 65 and older by analyzing floor vibrations, with the goal of preventing injuries and reducing fall-related costs.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.