Study of Measurement Properties of QTUG in Older Adults With Vestibulopathy
This research is looking into a new type of balance test, called QTUG, for older people who experience dizziness. Falls can be very serious for older adults, so finding better ways to prevent them is important. The QTUG test uses special sensors to measure how well someone can keep their balance. Doctors don't widely use it yet, so this study aims to see how accurate and useful it is. We'll be comparing it to other known tests and seeing if it can predict falls or show if balance exercises are helping. Ultimately, we hope this research will help doctors better understand balance issues and reduce falls in older people.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Falls can be a big worry for older people, sometimes leading to injuries and even hospital visits. That's why doctors are always looking for better ways to figure out who might be at a higher risk of falling and how to help prevent it. One common test is called the 'Time Up and Go' (TUG) test, where you stand up, walk a short distance, and sit back down.
Now, there's a newer version called the 'quantitative TUG' or QTUG. This test uses special sensors to measure your movements more precisely when you do the TUG test. However, not many doctors use it regularly because they're still learning how good it is compared to the older tests. This study aims to find out if the QTUG is a reliable way to measure balance problems in older people who experience dizziness.
To do this, the research will happen in four parts. First, we'll look at existing information from past patient records to see how QTUG results matched up with what doctors already knew about people's balance. Then, we'll ask 120 older people with dizziness to do various tests, including the QTUG, and ask them how they feel about their balance. A group of these people will then try special balance exercises for six months, and we'll compare their QTUG results with those who don't do the exercises yet, to see if the test can show improvement. Finally, we'll follow another group of older people for a year after they take the QTUG test to see if the test can accurately predict who might fall. Our goal is to see if the QTUG test can truly help doctors understand balance issues, predict fall risks, and check if treatments are effective.
Key takeaways
- This study is testing a new balance measurement called QTUG.
- It aims to help older people with dizziness and prevent falls.
- No new medicines are involved; it's about balance tests and exercises.
- Your participation could help improve future care for others.
- You can stop participating at any time if you wish.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for older adults aged 65 and over. You would need to have been diagnosed with certain types of dizziness or balance problems, like 'vestibulopathy' or Meniere's disease.
It's important that you can walk on your own, even if you use a walking aid like a stick. You must also be able to understand the study information and agree to take part.
However, you wouldn't be able to join if you have certain other conditions, such as visual problems, specific types of dizziness like BPPV or dizziness linked to heart problems, or certain brain and nerve conditions like Parkinson's disease or dementia. You also can't be pregnant or unable to speak English fluently.
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 65 years old or older?
- Do you have a diagnosis of a balance problem like vestibulopathy or Meniere's disease?
- Can you walk on your own, even if you use a walking aid?
- Do you not have certain other conditions like Parkinson's, visual impairment, or heart-related dizziness?
- Are you able to speak English fluently?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you would first have a meeting with the research team to make sure it's right for you and to get your consent. You would then be asked to do a variety of simple tests. These tests involve activities like the QTUG, which means standing up, walking a short distance, and sitting down, while wearing small sensors. You might also do a 30-second sit-to-stand test and answer some questions about your balance and how you feel. Some participants would then be asked to do specific balance exercises for six months at home, while others would do them later. Throughout the study, there would be follow-up appointments to repeat the tests and see how you are doing. The exact number of visits and the total length of your participation would depend on which part of the study you are involved in, but the exercise part for some would last six months, with follow-ups for others over a year.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Royal Hallamshire HospitalVerified postcodeSheffield, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is 'vestibulopathy'?
It's a medical term for problems with your inner ear balance system, which can cause dizziness or unsteadiness.
What are the 'sensors' for the QTUG test?
These are small, harmless devices, often worn on your body, that measure your movement very accurately during the test.
Will I have to take any new medicines?
No, this study does not involve taking any new medications.
How long will my appointments be?
The study aims to keep appointments as short as possible, but the exact time will depend on the tests you are doing. The research team will explain this in detail.
What if I feel dizzy during a test?
You can stop any test at any time if you feel dizzy or uncomfortable. Your safety is the top priority.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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