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Reduce the risk of falls: New training program for seniors in Oldenburg!
New study by the University of Oldenburg on fall prevention in older people: individual training to reduce risk starts in 2025.
Reduce the risk of falls: New training program for seniors in Oldenburg!
Recent studies show that fall risk prevention among older adults is an urgent concern. A new study of the Oldenburg University Medical Center focuses on the target group of people over 60 who need outpatient treatment after a fall. The “iSeFallED” project, funded with 1.79 million euros by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research, aims to establish targeted movement exercises to reduce the risk of falls. The study illustrates the urgency: two thirds of the people receiving outpatient care after a fall are at risk of further falls.
The participants examined have various risk factors, including older age, cognitive impairments and fears of falling again. In order to develop effective training, a thorough examination is first carried out in the geriatrics university outpatient clinic. Data on general condition, leg muscles, memory performance and fear of falling are collected.
Individual training for fall prevention
If test subjects take advantage of the offer, they will receive individually tailored six-month training that includes both strength and balance exercises. Training methods include the perturbation treadmill as well as exercises with balls, dumbbells and balance boards. In accordance with the new fall prevention guidelines developed specifically for Oldenburg, the training should also be made accessible to people who cannot travel to the university through training videos provided.
In addition, discussions are ongoing with the city sports association with the aim of being able to offer these forms of training in sports clubs. To evaluate the effectiveness of the program, follow-up assessments will be conducted six and twelve months after the start of the training. These are intended to show to what extent the participants' risk of falling has changed as a result of the specific exercises.
Social relevance of fall prevention
Like the initiative Federal Initiative for Fall Prevention (BIS) emphasizes, fall-related injuries are a social challenge in Germany. Every year, around 5 to 6 million older people suffer unintentional falls. The number of hip fractures caused by falls is continuously increasing, which leads to enormous social and economic pressure. The annual costs of fall-related injuries are estimated at over 3 billion euros.
In this context, the BIS recommendation paper was also updated to promote evidence-based programs for older people. The initiative, which is supported by scientists and experts, includes recommendations for specifically addressing and identifying those affected. It is particularly important to ensure the quality of the measures offered to ensure the safety of older people.
The BIS recommends that group training programs should take place at least once a week and places particular emphasis on the qualifications of the trainers. The coming months will be crucial in addressing the lack of appropriate fall prevention programs in Germany.
Like the experiences from the UNTIL show, a systematic approach to prevention is essential. Only through the joint efforts of everyone involved can the risk of falls be significantly reduced in order to ensure the independence of older people in the long term.