According to BMC Geriatrics, nearly one-third of adults over the age of 65 fall each year. Out of this group, 22-45% of the total are injured and a tenth of the total are injured due to a fracture or head injury. While exercise intervention can improve function and strength, there's controversy around the risk of further harm. Those sentiments are unfounded according to recent studies. A 2019 study from the Cochrane Library estimates that there is a 23% reduction in falls over time for individuals that exercise, and for those who have fallen before, exercise reduced their chances of falling again by 15%.
With data from the 81 trials that compared exercise and controlled intervention, experts found that greater attention should be paid to lifelong exercises that improve physical function and mobility at an older age.
Finding Effective Solutions
Results found that the most effective solutions rely specifically on balance and functional training exercises, which increase strength and stability in older adults. When they feel stronger, they have less fear of falling.
AI Can Intervene and Reduce Falls in Older Adults
VSTBalance uses Artificial Intelligence to identify deficits in balance, gait, and function in older adults—the three leading indicators of fall-risk. It can measure the precise risk of a fall in the next 12 months. After each assessment, reports are automatically generated to create effective care plans and help older adults find personalized exercises that will improve their mobility.
Exercise Together Using VSTBalance Groups
Group sessions can be designed with VSTBalance Groups. This system includes targeted therapy that points out common needs and prioritizes interventions that will benefit an entire group. It also makes customized or concurrent sessions in real-time based on attendance and gives flexibility to adjust sessions on the fly for participants who cannot attend.
Personalized AI Improves Mobility
At VirtuSense, our belief is that the best approach to fall prevention is to stop falls altogether. VSTBalance has reduced falls by 73% in skilled nursing and has improved mobility up to 85% for residents in assisted living and independent living. VSTBalance routes residents to the right solutions to improve their balance and function and in turn, have a better quality of life.