Cluster RCT of falls prevention Exergames for older adults
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A multi-centre, cluster randomised controlled trial comparing falls prevention Exergames with remote monitoring against standard falls prevention programmes for community dwelling older adults at risk of falls.
IRAS ID
195378
Contact name
Emma Stanmore
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
The University of Manchester
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, 30 days
Research summary
Fall-related injuries are the largest cause of accidental death in older people across Europe with 30% of people aged 65 and older, and 50% of people aged 80 and over falling at least once per year. \n \nThere is evidence that specific strength/balance exercises can reduce falls, but exercises need to be performed regularly, at home, which patients are not always able to do without support from therapists. Current care is not always effective, as treatment programmes are time limited, expensive and not necessarily accessible to people. There are also shortages of trained professionals to deliver the treatment.\n \nThis cluster randomised controlled trial will investigate the effectiveness of strength/balance Exergames with older people at risk of falls. Exergames are exercise and computer games that use body movements as controls. They have been developed to improve balance, function, prevent falls and increase exercise adherence for older people in the home setting. Exergames are safe for older people as they are low impact, joint protective, and can improve function. They can be used in the home setting and are user-friendly. \n \n108 participants with a history of a fall(s) will be recruited by care staff in sheltered housing facilities. The intervention group will use the Exergames plus usual falls prevention care . The control group will be treated with usual falls prevention care but will have access to the Exergames at the end of the study. \n \nThe research protocol will consist of: Observation of usual practice in falls prevention clinics; assessments at baseline, 6 weeks and 12 weeks using a combination of questionnaires, physical examination, and interviews. Users(therapists and participants) will be interviewed regarding their experiences of using the MIRA Exergames. Participants will also be followed up for 12 months after the initial measurements, using self-reported falls calendars, fall event forms and follow up telephone calls.\n \n
REC name
London - Camden & Kings Cross Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/LO/0200
Date of REC Opinion
22 Jan 2016
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion