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Minimizing fall-related injuries in at-risk older adults: The falling safely training (FAST) study protocol
Tobia Zanotto1,2, Lingjun Chen3, James Fang3
1Department of Occupational Therapy Education, School of Health Professions, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States.
Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications
|May 1, 2023
Summary
This study explores teaching older adults safe-falling strategies to reduce injury risk. The Falling Safely Training (FAST) program aims to minimize harm from falls in the elderly.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Biomechanics
- Injury Prevention
Background:
- Falls are a primary cause of accidental injury in the elderly.
- Current fall prevention programs show inconsistent success.
- Novel strategies are needed to directly mitigate fall-related injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the feasibility of teaching safe-falling strategies to at-risk older adults.
- To assess the preliminary efficacy of these strategies in minimizing injury risk.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, single-blinded randomized controlled trial (FAST study).
- 28 participants (≥65 years) randomized to FAST or modified Otago exercise program.
- Experimentally induced falls with motion capture at baseline, post-intervention, and 3-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- Data on feasibility and preliminary efficacy of safe-falling training will be collected.
- Focus on reducing fall impact and head motion.
- Potential reduction in hip and head injuries.
Conclusions:
- Safe-falling training offers a novel approach to reduce fall-related injuries in older adults.
- The FAST study will provide initial data on this intervention's effectiveness.
