Creating and Testing a Static Balance Assessment for High-Functioning Older Adults Aimed at Improving Fall Prevention and Healthy Aging

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are conducting a study to develop and validate a static balance assessment tool specifically designed for high-functioning older adults aged 65 years or older. This study aims to address limitations of traditional balance tests, which often fail to detect subtle differences in balance in this population, by extending testing times and increasing difficulty with eyes-closed conditions. The study focuses on creating a reliable tool to support healthy aging and prevent falls in community and long-term care settings. Participants will undergo a standardized static balance assessment protocol that includes body composition measurements, open-eyes and closed-eyes single-leg stance tests, and the Balance Error Scoring System performed on both firm and foam surfaces. Each participant will complete two identical testing sessions spaced 5 to 7 days apart, with both on-site and video-based scoring conducted by trained assessors to measure test-retest reliability. Throughout the study, participants will complete two assessment sessions where various balance tests are performed and scored. Researchers will collect data on body composition, muscle mass, fat percentage, metabolic rate, and balance performance under different conditions. The main outcome measured is the reliability of the balance assessment scores within 7 days. This study will help establish a sensitive and practical balance test that can be used to monitor balance changes and guide fall prevention efforts in older adults.

Development of a Static Balance Assessment Tool for High-Functioning Older Adults (KSVGH25-CT3-09)