Active not recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Implementing an Evidence-based Exercise Program to Reduce Falls in Community-dwelling Older Adults (Otago)

Falls can be a big problem for older people, often leading to serious injuries. The Otago Exercise Programme (OEP) is a proven set of exercises, guided by a physiotherapist, that helps improve strength and balance to prevent falls. However, it can be hard for people to stick with the programme over time. This new study is comparing two ways to deliver the OEP. One way is the traditional method. The other is a new approach with extra coaching from a physiotherapist and using a Fitbit to track progress and provide feedback. We want to see if this new coaching method helps people do the exercises more regularly, reduces their risk of falling, and helps them stay active for longer, all while being a good value for money.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University of British Columbia

Enrolment target

Start

01 Sep 2021

Estimated completion

01 Jun 2026

Old Age; Debility Fall

What is this study about?

Falls are a real worry for many older adults and can lead to serious injuries, hospital stays, and even stop people from living independently. Thankfully, there are things that can be done to prevent falls, and one of the most effective is called the Otago Exercise Programme (OEP). This programme involves special exercises designed to improve your strength and balance, and it's usually taught by a physiotherapist.

While the OEP works well, sometimes people find it difficult to keep up with the exercises over a long period. This study aims to find better ways to help people stick with the programme. We're directly comparing the traditional way of delivering the OEP with a new, updated approach. This new approach involves physiotherapists providing extra coaching and using modern tools like a Fitbit, which can help you track your physical activity and offer feedback on your progress.

Our main goal is to see if this new coaching method makes it easier for older adults to follow the OEP consistently, reduces their chances of falling, and helps them participate more in daily walking activities. We'll be looking at these results over two years, and we'll also be checking to see if this new coaching approach is a cost-effective way to prevent falls, meaning it gives good value for money in healthcare.

Key takeaways

This study explores new ways to prevent falls in older adults.
It tests an exercise program (OEP) with and without extra coaching and Fitbit use.
The goal is to help people stay active and reduce fall risk over two years.
The study also checks if the new coaching approach is good value for money.
Participation involves working with a physiotherapist and having sessions recorded.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, we're looking for older adults who are at least 70 years old. You would need to have had a fall in the past six months (that wasn't due to fainting) and be able to walk a short distance, either on your own or with a walking aid like a stick. You'd also need to be able to understand, speak, and read English well.

We'd check your memory and thinking skills with a short test to make sure you can follow the programme. We also have specific ways of checking your balance and risk of falling, either by looking at a special score or timing how long it takes you to stand up and walk a short distance.

You'd need to live in an area covered by Vancouver Coastal Health in Canada and have access to a mobile phone or similar device. Your sessions with the physiotherapist would be audio-recorded, and you'd need to agree to this. If you don't meet these specific criteria, then unfortunately, you wouldn't be able to take part.

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 70 years old or older?
Have you had a fall in the last six months that wasn't due to fainting?
Can you walk a short distance (with or without a walking aid)?
Do you speak and read English well?
Do you have access to a mobile phone or similar device?
Are you willing to have your exercise sessions audio-recorded?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, you will work with a physiotherapist on the Otago Exercise Programme. Depending on which group you're in, you might receive extra coaching and use a Fitbit to help with your exercises. We'll be looking at how well the programme is delivered and how often you fall, your risk of falling, and how much you walk. This study will last for 24 months (two years), during which you'll have ongoing support.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could potentially help you improve your strength and balance, reducing your risk of falling. You might also become more active. While the exercises are generally safe, there's always a slight risk of minor aches or discomfort, especially when starting a new exercise programme. Your physiotherapist will guide you to ensure exercises are done safely. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Arthritis Research Canada
Verified postcode
Vancouver, Canada

Common questions

What is the Otago Exercise Programme?

It's a special exercise programme, led by a physiotherapist, designed to improve your strength and balance to help prevent falls.

What does 'coaching' mean in this study?

It means your physiotherapist will give you extra guidance and support, possibly using a Fitbit, to help you stick with your exercises and track your progress.

Will I have to pay for the Fitbit?

The study details don't mention any costs to participants for the Fitbit. It would likely be provided if you are in that particular group.

How long does the study last?

The study will track your progress for 24 months, which is two years.

Will my information be kept private?

The study involves audio-recording your exercise sessions. Researchers take steps to protect your privacy and keep your personal information confidential.