Balance training for older adults to prevent falls
Effect of Self-initiated Perturbation-based Balance Training on the Postural Stability of Community-dwelling Older Adults with an Increased Risk of Falling: a Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing if a new type of balance training can help older adults stay steady on their feet and prevent falls better than traditional balance exercises.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 48 (estimated) |
| Ages | 60 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong, Hong Kong) |
| Trial ID | NCT06774833 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effectiveness of self-initiated perturbation-based balance training (SePBT) compared to conventional balance training in older adults. Participants aged 60 and above will be randomly assigned to either the SePBT group or the control group. Both groups will undergo two 30-minute training sessions over two weeks, with assessments of postural stability and fall incidents conducted before, immediately after, and four months post-training. The study aims to identify significant changes in balance and stability that could reduce fall risks in older adults.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are community-dwelling adults aged 60 years or older who have experienced falls or have concerns about falling.
Not a fit: Patients with uncorrected vision or hearing impairments, osteoporosis, or recent joint replacements may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this training could significantly reduce the incidence of falls among older adults, enhancing their safety and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using perturbation-based training to improve balance in older adults, suggesting this approach may be effective.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Community-dwelling adults aged 60 years old or older * Able to communicate effectively in Cantonese or Mandarin * Able to walk independently on level ground for at least 30 minutes * Abbreviated Mental Test (Hong Kong version) scores≥6 * Have fallen in the preceding year, have concerns about falling, or feel unsteady while walking or standing. Exclusion Criteria: * Uncorrected vision or hearing impairment * Osteoporosis * Hip or knee replacement within the last year * Have musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, mental, or neurological disorders that preclude their participation in the assessment or intervention safety
Where this trial is running
Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University — Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Sau Lan Tsang, PhD
- Email: charlotte-sl.tsang@polyu.edu.hk
- Phone: 852 3400 8965
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.