Exercise program to improve balance and fitness for deaf seniors
Balance and Fitness Enhancement Program for Deaf Older Adults
This study is testing an 8-week exercise program in American Sign Language to see if it helps deaf seniors improve their balance and fitness.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 60 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Gallaudet University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Washington, District of Columbia) |
| Trial ID | NCT06912607 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This program involves deaf older adults aged 60 and above participating in an 8-week exercise regimen conducted entirely in American Sign Language. Classes are held twice a week, supplemented with homework exercises through handouts and videos. The study aims to assess improvements in balance confidence, lower extremity strength, walking agility, and standing balance before and after the intervention, as well as six months post-intervention. A total of 10-12 participants will be recruited for each semester of the program.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this program are deaf individuals aged 60 and older who are fluent in American Sign Language and can walk independently.
Not a fit: Patients who are blind, have dementia, or suffer from neurological conditions may not benefit from this program.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly enhance balance and fitness in deaf seniors, reducing their risk of falls.
How similar studies have performed: While there may be limited studies specifically targeting deaf seniors, similar exercise interventions for older adults have shown positive outcomes in improving balance and reducing fall risk.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Deaf * Uses American Sign Language (ASL) fluently * Community-dwelling * Able to walk independently for at least 20 ft * Willing to attend classes twice a week at Gallaudet University Exclusion Criteria: * Blindness * Dementia * Neurological conditions
Where this trial is running
Washington, District of Columbia
- Gallaudet University — Washington, District of Columbia, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Chizuko Tamaki, AuD, PhD — Gallaudet University
- Study coordinator: Chizuko Tamaki, PhD
- Email: chizuko.tamaki@gallaudet.edu
- Phone: (202) 651-5336
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.