Exploring Exercise Engagement in Older Adults at Risk of Falls

Barriers and Facilitators to Exercise Engagement in People Over 60 at Risk of Falls: an Exploratory Study

Observational East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust · NCT06100445

This study is trying to understand how older adults at risk of falls feel about exercise and what challenges they face, to help improve their ability to stay active and safe.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment10 (estimated)
Ages60 Years to 95 Years
SexAll
SponsorEast Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust Academic / other
Locations1 site (Blackburn, Lancashire)
Trial IDNCT06100445 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study uses semi-structured interviews to investigate the experiences of individuals over 60 who are at risk of falls, focusing on their perceptions of exercise and the barriers they face. The study aims to understand preferences for exercise formats, the ability to discuss falls risk with healthcare professionals, and the sustainability of exercise routines. By gathering qualitative data, the research seeks to identify health inequalities and improve falls management pathways for this population. Participants will be recruited from those referred to musculoskeletal physiotherapy in Rossendale.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 60 and over who are identified as being at risk of falls due to musculoskeletal issues.

Not a fit: Patients under 60 or those with medical causes of falls may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved exercise engagement and reduced fall risk among older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that exercise can significantly reduce fall risk in older adults, indicating potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged 60 years or over
* At risk of falls or had a fall due to a musculoskeletal cause (pain, muscle weakness, balance issue)
* Has capacity to consent, as deemed by the direct care team and researcher
* Can communicate in English OR the use of a translation service - Able to independently participate in an interview either face-to-face or via remote means OR can use a translation service

Exclusion Criteria:

\- Aged under 60

* Have a medical cause of falls OR currently under investigation for a medical cause of falls (eg/ dizziness, cardiac, visual impairment reported as being the cause of the fall as opposed to weakness or pain in lower limbs/balance issues or unsteady on feet)
* Moderate to severe cognitive impairment impairing capacity to consent

Where this trial is running

Blackburn, Lancashire

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Musculoskeletal InjuryFrailtyPhysical InactivityHealth Behavior
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.