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Perturbation in public transport as a basic concept for perturbation-based balance training for fall prevention
Ulrich Lindemann1, Kim Sczuka2, Clemens Becker2
1Department of Clinical Gerontology and Rehabilitation, Robert-Bosch-Hospital, Auerbachstr. 110, 70376, Stuttgart, Germany. ulrich.lindemann@rbk.de.
Zeitschrift Fur Gerontologie Und Geriatrie
|July 8, 2020
Summary
Bus and tram rides involve significant acceleration and jerking, with buses exhibiting higher values than trams. These real-world data can inform the development of effective balance training programs to prevent falls.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics and Transportation Safety
- Gerontology and Public Health
Background:
- Understanding real-world perturbations during public transport use is crucial for mitigating fall-related injuries.
- Previous research has not extensively quantified the dynamic forces experienced on buses and trams.
Purpose of the Study:
- To collect and analyze real-world sensor data on acceleration and deceleration experienced on buses and trams.
- To inform the development of reactive balance training programs based on actual transit conditions.
Main Methods:
- Acceleration and deceleration data were collected over 12 days using sensors attached to vehicle bars in a German city.
- Extreme deceleration values were also recorded during full braking in a driving school bus for comparison.
Main Results:
- Buses exhibited higher extreme acceleration and jerking values compared to trams during acceleration from standing.
- Deceleration events approaching stops also showed greater magnitudes of deceleration and jerking in buses versus trams.
- The duration of acceleration and deceleration incidents was shorter in buses than in trams.
Conclusions:
- Acceleration and jerking forces are significantly higher in buses than in trams.
- Findings support the creation of ecologically valid laboratory simulations for studying balance in older adults.
- This research can guide the design of targeted fall prevention interventions for public transport users.
