Improving walking stability in older adults to prevent falls
Official title: Modulating brain networks to reduce gait variability in older adults at risk of falling
Funded at Hebrew Rehabilitation Center for Aged · NIH-10762422 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the brain helps older adults walk and aims to make their walking more steady to prevent falls, using a gentle brain stimulation technique to boost their walking and focus, so they can move around safely and confidently.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Hebrew Rehabilitation Center for Aged NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | January 15, 2022 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $112,388 |
| NIH project number | 5K01AG075252-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10762422 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who experience variability in their walking patterns and are at risk of falling.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing gait variability or who have severe cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how brain networks control walking in older adults and aims to reduce variability in their gait, which can lead to falls. The approach involves using a technique called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to enhance brain activity related to walking and attention. By developing personalized interventions, the research seeks to improve mobility and safety for seniors. Participants will engage in assessments to measure their walking patterns and cognitive functions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the risk of falls among older adults, enhancing their mobility and overall quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using brain stimulation techniques to improve cognitive and motor functions in older adults, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Hebrew Rehabilitation Center for Aged
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lo, on-Yee Amy — Hebrew Rehabilitation Center for Aged
- Study coordinator: Lo, on-Yee Amy
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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.