Neuroscience Research Australia is investigating the effectiveness of a home-based balance and cognitive exercise program in reducing the number of falls in older people.
The StandingTall-Plus study will also collaborate with the Black Dog Institute to offer online cognitive behavioural therapy to address a fear of falling and depressive thoughts, with the program to be tailored to each individual’s requirements.
“Half of the volunteers will be asked to use the StandingTall-Plus program at home, while the other half will be asked to continue with their usual activities. All volunteers will undergo assessments of their physical and cognitive status,” a spokesperson for the study said.
“In light of the current COVID-19 situation, we have adapted our trial so that we can continue this important research while maintaining the safety of our participants and staff.”
“All previous face-to-face assessments and home-visits will now be conducted remotely using Telehealth methods (video calls).”
You may be able to help with the research if you:
- are 65 years or older;
- live independently in the Sydney metropolitan area (NB: not all Sydney areas are currently included);
- have had a fall in the last 6 months OR have concerns about falling OR are 80 years or older;
- are fluent in English;
- have no progressive neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, Multiple Sclerosis or Dementia;
- are comfortable to accept a video call, and/or have a support person who can assist with this;
- are comfortable to perform a balance assessment under remote supervision and/or have a support person who can be present during this assessment.
For more information, please email the study team at standingtallplus@neura.edu.au, or contact the recruitment line at 9399 1888.
To register your interest in taking part, click through this link: https://data.neura.edu.au/surveys/?s=WTCTKDXFAF
