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Study to prevent falls in seniors
Residents at IRT Kangara Waters are participating in a research project aimed at preventing falls and maintaining physical function in seniors.
The study, which is being conducted by the University of Canberra, investigates the impact of different exercise regimes on the risk of falling and physical functionality.
IRT Chief Executive, Nieves Murray said the falls prevention study was an important piece of research for the health and quality of life of Australian seniors.
“Preventing falls in seniors has the potential to significantly lower health care costs and prolong community living,” Ms Murray said.
“IRT is pleased to partner with the University of Canberra on this project, not just for the positive impact participating in the study will have on our residents, but also for the potential benefit the results of the study will provide to all seniors,” she said.
Thirty-five IRT Kangara Waters residents ranging in age from 65 to 92 are participating in the study, which involves two 16-week balance and exercise programs and three rounds of testing.
The residents were initially tested at the beginning of the study in October last year. One group of participants then undertook balance training for 16 weeks, while another group acted as a control.
The residents are currently being tested to determine the effect of the balance training on their risk of falling and physical functionality.
The first group will continue with their balance exercises for another 16 weeks and the original control group will undertake balance training along with an aerobic exercise program. All residents will again be tested at the end of the study, at the beginning of June.
Ms Murray said the research project part of a partnership between IRT and the University of Canberra, which was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding, signed in November 2009.
For further information please contact:
Deborah De Santis
Media Advisor
Phone: 0403 121 651
