Improving balance and stability for older adults using wearable technology
Making INformed Decisions in Gaze and Postural Stability (MINDGAPS): a Novel System for Improving Personalized Care and Patient Adherence in Vestibular Rehabilitation
This study is testing a new system called MINDGAPS that uses wearable sensors to help older adults with dizziness and balance problems by giving them real-time feedback on their exercises, making it easier for them to stick to their rehabilitation and improve their stability.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Montana NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Missoula, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10813136 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing personalized care for older adults experiencing dizziness and balance issues due to vestibular hypofunction. It employs a novel system called MINDGAPS, which utilizes wearable sensors to accurately measure gaze and postural stability. By providing real-time feedback, the system aims to improve patient adherence to vestibular rehabilitation exercises, which are crucial for recovery. The approach addresses common barriers to effective rehabilitation, such as lack of personalized monitoring and assessment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 80 and over who experience dizziness and balance problems.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have vestibular hypofunction or are under 80 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the risk of falls and improve the quality of life for older adults with balance issues.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that wearable technology can effectively enhance rehabilitation outcomes in other health areas, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Missoula, United States
- University of Montana — Missoula, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Loyd, Brian James — University of Montana
- Study coordinator: Loyd, Brian James
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 below.