Reducing fall risk by improving balance control: development, evaluation and knowledge-translation of new approaches |
| |
Authors: | Maki Brian E Sibley Katherine M Jaglal Susan B Bayley Mark Brooks Dina Fernie Geoff R Flint Alastair J Gage William Liu Barbara A McIlroy William E Mihailidis Alex Perry Stephen D Popovic Milos R Pratt Jay Zettel John L |
| |
Affiliation: | aSunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (Toronto, Canada);bUniversity of Toronto (Toronto, Canada);cToronto Rehabilitation Institute (Toronto, Canada);dYork University (Toronto, Canada);eWilfrid Laurier University (Waterloo, Canada);fUniversity of Waterloo (Waterloo, Canada);gGuelph University (Guelph, Canada) |
| |
Abstract: | ProblemFalling is a leading cause of serious injury, loss of independence, and nursing-home admission in older adults. Impaired balance control is a major contributing factor.MethodsResults from our balance-control studies have been applied in the development of new and improved interventions and assessment tools. Initiatives to facilitate knowledge-translation of this work include setting up a new network of balance clinics, a research-user network and a research-user advisory board.ResultsOur findings support the efficacy of the developed balance-training methods, balance-enhancing footwear, neuro-prosthesis, walker design, handrail-cueing system, and handrail-design recommendations in improving specific aspects of balance control.Impact on Knowledge UsersA new balance-assessment tool has been implemented in the first new balance clinic, a new balance-enhancing insole is available through pharmacies and other commercial outlets, and handrail design recommendations have been incorporated into 10 Canadian and American building codes. Work in progress is expected to have further impact. |
| |
Keywords: | Balance training Falls prevention Footwear Handrails Mobility aids |
本文献已被 ScienceDirect PubMed 等数据库收录! |
|