Improving walking performance in older adults using wearable devices
Ankle Assistance and Resistance in Older Adults
EARLY_PHASE1 · Northern Arizona University · NCT06284525
This study is testing if wearable devices can help older adults walk better and improve their balance.
Quick facts
| Phase | EARLY_PHASE1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 8 (estimated) |
| Ages | 65 Years to 85 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Northern Arizona University (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Flagstaff, Arizona) |
| Trial ID | NCT06284525 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This research aims to enhance mobility in older adults by testing wearable assistive devices, specifically focusing on ankle resistance gait training and wearable assistance at the ankle, knee, and hip joints. The study will evaluate how these interventions can improve walking performance through various modes of walking and balance trials, conducted both over-ground and on a treadmill. Participants will engage in walking sessions lasting up to 40 minutes, with breaks to prevent fatigue, while their performance is monitored and assessed.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults aged 65 to 85 who can walk at least 30 feet and understand simple directions.
Not a fit: Patients with neurological, musculoskeletal, or cardiorespiratory conditions that impair walking may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly improve mobility and quality of life for older adults suffering from sarcopenia.
How similar studies have performed: While similar approaches have been explored, this specific combination of ankle resistance and wearable assistance is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age between 65 and 85 years old, inclusive. * Must be able to understand and follow simple directions based on parent report and clinical observation during the history and physical examination. * Able to provide verbal assent, if appropriate. If the participant is non-verbal, parental interpretation of gesticulation for assent will be used. * The ability to read and understand English. * Able to walk at least 30 feet with or without a walking aid * Able to safely fit into a device configuration and tolerate assistance without knee hyperextension while walking Exclusion Criteria: * Any neurological, musculoskeletal or cardiorespiratory injury, health condition ( including pregnancy), or diagnosis that would affect the ability to walk as directed for short periods of time. Note: For elderly participants, a history of joint replacement or joint degeneration that does not impair their ability to walk safely is allowable. * Participant or parent report that the perspective participant's physician has recommended that they not engage in moderate intensity walking exercise.
Where this trial is running
Flagstaff, Arizona
- Northern Arizona University — Flagstaff, Arizona, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Zach Lerner, PhD
- Email: Zachary.Lerner@nau.edu
- Phone: 928-523-1787
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.
Conditions: Sarcopenia