Effect of Rhythm-based Multitask Training on Falls Among Older Adults

Summary

In this assessor-blinded, randomized, controlled trial our primary aim is to quantify the effects of a six-month rhythm-based multitask training (RYMA) intervention on fall rates collected over 12 months, compared to continuation of regular activity schedule, among community-dwelling older adults (≥70 years).

This assessor-blinded, randomized, controlled trial aim is to quantify the effects of six-month rhythm-based multitask training (RYMA) on fall rates collected over 12 months, compared to continuation of regular activity schedule, among community-dwelling older adults (≥70 years).

A sample size calculation estimates that 126 older community-dwelling older adults (≥70 years) are needed. Following baseline measures, the recruited participants will randomly be assigned to either the RYMA or the control group. The participants in the RYMA group will be assigned to a single weekly one-hour session for six months, while the control group will be encouraged to continue their regular activity schedule. Assessment of the primary outcome, fall rates, will be conducted continuously in 12 months from the beginning of training using monthly fall calendars. When a fall is reported in the fall calendar, a telephone interview will be conducted to assess circumstances and consequences (e.g. fall-related fractures, fall-related hospital admissions) of the falls. Moreover, assessment of physical, cognitive, and social-psychological surrogate outcomes will be made at baseline, six, and 12 months.

Conditions

• Accidental Fall
• Fall Injury

Interventions

OTHER

Rhythm-based Multitask Training

Participants will be assigned to a weekly one-hour RYMA session for six months, followed by a six-month follow-up period without training. An experienced instructor will perform the RYMA sessions, which consists of a wide variety of rhythm-based multitask exercises performed to improvised piano music. The RYMA intervention is inspired by Dalcroze eurhythmics and exercises consists of components such as 1) coordination between hands and/or feet, 2) dissociation between hands and/or feet, 3) movements based on musical cues (e.g. follow the tempo), 4) movement inhibition based on musical cues, 5) handling of props (e.g. balls, scarfs, and plates), 6) pair or group-based coordination movements (e.g. clapping each other's hands and mirroring movements), 7) memorizing and repeating of rhythmic patterns, and 8) quick motoric responses to unexpected cues.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Aalborg University

  collaborator OTHER

• Aalborg University Hospital

  lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

• Jens E Nørgaard, Cand.Scient. · Aalborg University Hospital

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

PREVENTION

Masking

SINGLE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

70 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

Yes

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2021-02-01

Primary Completion

2022-06-30

Completion

2022-12-31

Countries

• Denmark

Study Locations