AquaReBal - Water-based Reactive Balance Training for Older Adults: a Randomized Pilot Study

Launched by JÓZEF PIŁSUDSKI UNIVERSITY OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION · Dec 3, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The AquaReBal trial is studying a type of training called water-based reactive balance training (RBT) to see if it can help reduce falls in older adults. Falls are a serious issue for seniors, often leading to injuries and hospital visits. This study will compare water-based RBT with traditional land-based RBT to understand how each affects balance, mobility, and overall quality of life. Participants will be older adults aged 65 and above who have experienced multiple falls or have reported balance difficulties. They should be able to stand for at least one minute and walk independently for a short distance.

If eligible, participants can expect to take part in training sessions twice a week for six weeks. They will be randomly assigned to either the water-based or land-based training group. After the training, researchers will follow up for six months to see how well each type of training works. This study aims to gather information that could lead to larger trials focused on preventing falls, which is a major concern for older adults. It's important to note that individuals with certain medical conditions or who are currently receiving physiotherapy may not be eligible to participate.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 65 years and older
• • able to stand ≥1 min
• • able to independently walk ≥10 m without assistance
• • a history of ≥2 falls in the past 12 months, history of an injurious fall in the past 12 months, and/or self-reported balance difficulties
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Current diagnosis of neurological or sensory disorders
• • uncorrected vision problems
• • recurrent dizziness
• • cognitive deficits
• • medical conditions that could increase injury risk during balance tests (e.g. presence of a prior fragility fracture)
• • conditions that would not allow the participant to get into the therapy pool (e.g. wounds, fear of water)
• • currently attending physiotherapy or supervised exercise.