Active not recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Stepping-Up: Partnering with the Community to Prevent Early Mobility Decline

This study is called 'Stepping-Up' and it's looking for new ways to help people aged 55 to 75 keep their mobility – that's your ability to move around easily. We know that sometimes, long before major issues like needing help with daily tasks, people might notice small changes in how they walk, like it being a bit slower or getting tired more quickly. These early changes are often missed, but catching them early could help prevent bigger problems later on. This study is testing a new program called STEPPING-UP, which aims to improve walking ability. Participants will learn more about how to keep active and mobile, helping them stay independent and enjoy life to the fullest.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

McMaster University

Enrolment target

249

Start

01 Apr 2021

Estimated completion

01 Apr 2026

Mobility Limitation

What is this study about?

Imagine you're walking or doing everyday things, and you start to notice it's a little bit harder than it used to be. Maybe you walk a bit slower, or you get tired more quickly when you're out and about. These small changes, often called 'preclinical mobility limitations,' happen before serious problems with movement begin. Doctors often don't spot these early signs, but we believe that if we can help people at this stage, we can make a real difference to their long-term health and independence.

Catching these early signs is really important. If these small changes are left unaddressed, they can unfortunately lead to bigger problems down the line, such as a higher risk of falls or finding it harder to do daily tasks. Over time, losing the ability to move easily can affect how long someone lives, even if they're still able to do most things for themselves. This study is all about trying to stop this decline in mobility from happening.

The 'Stepping-Up' study is testing a new program designed to improve walking and overall movement for people who are experiencing these early mobility changes. It's a chance to explore how community-based support can help you stay active and maintain your independence as you get older, focusing on preventing problems before they become serious.

Key takeaways

A research study looking for new ways to help older adults stay active.
Aims to prevent bigger mobility problems by tackling early changes.
Involves exercise programs like walking or gentle yoga.
You'll need computer access for online sessions.
You must live in Ontario, Canada and be 55-75 years old.
Could help you maintain your independence and movement for longer.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for people who live in the community, not in a care home, and are between 55 and 75 years old.

You might be a good fit if you've noticed some minor changes in your ability to walk or move. For example, you might still be able to walk 2 kilometres, but you now find yourself changing how you do it, perhaps taking longer, going less often, or using a different method compared to before. You also need to speak and understand English, have a laptop or computer with internet, and an email address so you can use video calls like Zoom. Importantly, you must live in Ontario, Canada.

However, you won't be able to join if you have a major illness that would stop you from taking part, or if a short telephone memory check shows a low score. This is to make sure the study is safe and suitable for everyone involved.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you between 55 and 75 years old?
Do you live in Ontario, Canada?
Have you noticed small changes or efforts required for walking 2 kilometres?
Do you have a laptop, email, and internet access for video calls?
Can you understand spoken and written English?
Are you generally able to take part in light exercise?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you take part in the 'Stepping-Up' study, you'll be involved in one of two programs: either a telephone-based coaching walking program or a chair-based yoga program. Both programs are designed to help you improve your movement and walking ability. The study will involve regular check-ins and activities over a period of time, likely using your computer for video calls.

You won't be given any new medications as part of this study, as it focuses on lifestyle interventions like walking and yoga. There will be assessments at the beginning and end of the study to measure your mobility and see how the programs have helped. The total duration of your involvement will be clearly explained to you before you agree to take part.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could offer several benefits, such as improving your walking ability and overall movement, which can help you stay active and independent for longer. You might also gain a better understanding of how to manage early changes in your mobility. As with any exercise program, there are always minor risks such as muscle soreness or fatigue; however, the programs are designed to be safe and suitable for your age group and current mobility level. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

McMaster University
Verified postcode
Hamilton, Canada

Common questions

What exactly do you mean by 'mobility limitations'?

It means you might be noticing small changes in how you move, like walking a bit slower or getting tired more easily, even if you can still do most things.

Do I have to be good at using a computer?

You'll need a laptop with internet and an email address to use video calls like Zoom, but the study team can help with basic setup.

Will I have to take any new medicines?

No, this study focuses on exercise programs like walking or yoga, not new medications.

How long will the study last?

The exact duration will be explained to you, but it will involve a period of participation in either a walking or yoga program.

What if I decide I don't want to continue?

You are completely free to leave the study at any time, for any reason, and it won't affect your medical care.