The StandingTall team, has worked with over 500 community-dwelling older people since 2015, implementing a home-based balance exercise program delivered through a tablet computer. By embracing technology, we are providing an alternative exercise opportunity, which is engaging and using all the latest evidence to prevent falls. The program has been a success with our participants, evidenced by unprecedented levels of sustained adherence to prescribed balance exercises over two years.
For our next research study, called “StandingTall-Plus”, we have added a cutting-edge brain training program to help people think faster on their feet during daily activities. We are also collaborating with the Black Dog institute to offer online cognitive behavioural therapy to address depressive thoughts and low mood. Our primary aim is to reduce the number of falls over a 12-month follow-up period, when compared to a health promotion program.
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 balance and cognitive assessments.
You can help our research if you:
- are 65 years or older
- have had a fall in the last 6 months OR have concerns about falling OR are 80 years or older
- are fluent in English
- live independently in the Sydney metropolitan area
- have no progressive neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, Multiple Sclerosis or Dementia
