Project

Postural control and walking/gait in older persons and persons with chronic conditions

Code
bof/baf/4y/2024/01/788
Duration
01 January 2024 → 31 December 2025
Funding
Regional and community funding: Special Research Fund
Research disciplines
  • Medical and health sciences
    • Gerontology and geriatrics not elsewhere classified
    • Movement neuroscience
    • Physiotherapy
    • Rehabilitation
Keywords
person with chronic conditions gait/walking falls postural control ageing functional disabilities
 
Project description

Society is undergoing a demographic transition with significant challenges for healthcare in general, and particularly for rehabilitation and physical therapy. The proportion of aging individuals is rising dramatically, and maintaining the functional independence of this group is not only about treating (co)morbidities, but also involves important preventive measures (primary, secondary, and tertiary).

 

The independence of this group, with a focus on ensuring adequate quality of life and well-being, often relates physically to their ability to move safely and independently, without, for example, the risk of falls. This safety in transfers and locomotion guarantees optimal social opportunities to continue participating fully in society.

Unfortunately, there are numerous challenges and changes in the aging body that can negatively affect stability and mobility. Research into risk factors, adjustments, and interventions in this area currently deserves high priority in the healthcare/rehabilitation/physical therapy of this growing population.

In recent decades, extensive research has already been conducted in this field within the research group, focusing on falls among healthy older adults, stroke patients, individuals with diabetes, dementia, and more.

The aim, alongside further research into risk factors and interventions, is to invest in appropriate reflections and eventual remediation’s regarding the paths that were taken and to assess the extent to which this has led to implementation in clinical practice and/or what adjustments and initiatives are needed for a suitable return on investment for society.