Publication: Preventing falls in older adults: new interventions to promote more effective change-in-support balance reactions
All || By Area || By Year| Title | Preventing falls in older adults: new interventions to promote more effective change-in-support balance reactions | Authors/Editors* | Maki BE, Cheng K, Mansfield A, Scovila C, Perry SD, Peter A , McKay S , Lee T, Marquisa A, Corbeile P, Fernie GR, Liu B and McIlroy WE |
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| Where published* | Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology |
| How published* | Journal |
| Year* | 2007 |
| Volume | In Press |
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| Abstract |
âChange-in-supportâ (CIS) balance-recovery reactions that involve rapid stepping or reaching movements play a critical role in preventing falls; however, age-related deficits in the neuro-musculoskeletal systems may impede ability to execute these reactions effectively. This review describes four new interventions aimed at reducing fall risk in older adults by promoting more effective CIS reactions: 1) balance training, 2) balance-enhancing footwear, 3) safer mobility aids, and 4) handrail cueing systems. The training program uses unpredictable support-surface perturbations to counter specific CIS control problems associated with aging and fall risk. Pilot testing has demonstrated that the program is well-tolerated by balance-impaired older adults, and a randomized controlled trial is now in progress. The balance-enhancing footwear improves control of stepping reactions by compensating for age-related loss of plantar cutaneous sensation. In a randomized controlled trial, the insole was well tolerated and the balance-enhancing effects persisted after wearing it for twelve weeks. The mobility-aid intervention involves changes to the design of pickup walkers so as to reduce impediments to lateral stepping. Finally, work is underway to investigate the effectiveness of handrail cueing in attracting attention to the rail and ensuring that the brain registers its location, thereby facilitating more rapid and accurate grasping. |
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