Understanding how older adults with mild cognitive impairment manage balance to prevent falls

Neuromechanisms of falls in older adults with MCI: Targeting assessment and training of reactive balance control

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-10906086

This study is looking at how older adults with mild cognitive impairment manage their balance when faced with unexpected challenges, to help find ways to improve their stability and reduce the risk of falls.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10906086 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the balance control mechanisms in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to better understand their increased risk of falls. It focuses on how these individuals respond to unexpected disturbances while standing or walking, which is crucial for maintaining stability. The study aims to assess their ability to adapt to balance training and improve their protective responses through targeted interventions. By examining the interplay between cognitive and motor functions, the research seeks to develop effective strategies to enhance balance and reduce fall risk in this vulnerable population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 70 and above who have been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment.

Not a fit: Patients who are cognitively intact or those with severe cognitive impairments beyond MCI may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved fall prevention strategies for older adults with MCI, enhancing their safety and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeted balance training can improve stability in older adults, suggesting potential success for similar approaches in this study.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.