Clinical Research Directory

Dialysis Geriatric Care Model

The objectives of this study are to refine the dialysis care model with key stakeholder input and conduct a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) to obtain evidence critical to inform a definitive RCT.

Robotic-Assisted System in Enhancing Balance, Postural Stability, Functional Gait and Fall Efficacy in Older Adults

Our study aims to investigate the effectiveness of a more individualized and personalized feedback-oriented approach using a Robotic Assisted System, the Hunova Movendo Robotic System. This system is tailored to specific needs of individuals and is dynamically adjustable relative to patients' balance and functional demands. It will be compared to Otago Exercise Programme which is more generalized. Given the generalized nature of the Otago Exercise Programme, we aim to compare it with the Robotic Assisted Systems in the enhancement of Balance, Postural Stability, Functional Gait and Fall Efficacy in older adults.

Comparıson of the Effıcacy of Conventıonal Exercıse and Pılates ın Pre-fraıl and Fraıl Older Adults

Brief Summary This clinical study aims to compare the effects of a conventional exercise program and a Pilates exercise program in prefrail and frail older adults. A total of 40 participants aged 60 years and older who are classified as prefrail or frail according to the FRAIL Scale will be included in the study. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the conventional exercise group or the Pilates group. Both exercise programs will be conducted twice weekly for 6 weeks. The interventions will focus on stretching exercises, balance and perturbation training, and strength exercises targeting major muscle groups. Primary outcomes will include changes in frailty status assessed before and after the intervention. Secondary outcomes will include functional mobility and balance assessed by the Timed Up and Go Test, dynamic balance assessed by the Functional Reach Test, lower extremity strength assessed by the 30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test, gait speed assessed by the 10-Meter Walk Test, depressive symptoms and psychological well-being assessed by the Yesavage Geriatric Depression Scale, independence in daily activities assessed by the Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale, cognitive status assessed by the Mini-Mental State Examination, and fatigue assessed by the Modified Borg Scale. Frailty status will be evaluated using the FRAIL Scale. Throughout the study, participant safety will be monitored, and any adverse events, such as injuries or discomfort occurring during exercise sessions, will be recorded and managed appropriately. This study is expected to provide valuable clinical evidence regarding the effectiveness of conventional exercise and Pilates programs in improving physical health and reducing frailty in prefrail and frail older adults, thereby contributing to the identification of best practice approaches for the management of this vulnerable population.

Impact of Medication Reconciliation at Discharge on Potentially Inappropriate Medications in the Elderly : Community-hospital Coordination

The geriatric population is exposed to poly-medication. Furthermore, old people have important pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic changes that expose to much drug iatrogenic. Adverse drug effects are a great cause for hospitalization that is why the knowledge of the complete list of medications taken by the patient is necessary. The poly-medication in elderly can lead to extremely serious clinical consequences and significant costs. Reference documents specific to geriatrics guide the doctor in therapeutic choices. On the one hand, the Laroche's criteria lists all PIM of the French pharmacopoeia in elderly. On the other hand, STOPP/START criteria are a tool for detect PIM listing inappropriate drugs and criteria of potentially drug omissions. This has been validated in French language. It is important that any changes proposed by the geriatrician resulting in just prescription is sustainable beyond the hospitalization to prevent the recurrence of adverse effects. Effective community-hospital coordination is essential. Medication reconciliation is defined as the formal process of checking the complete, accurate list of a patient's previous medication - including drug name, dosage, frequency, and route - and comparing it with the prescription after a transition of care (on admission, after transfer to another medical unit, and/or at discharge). Two groups of patients will be created, one for which medication reconciliation at discharge will be practiced and the other a similar process but not standardized. Four to eight weeks after the discharge, the member of the pharmacy team is calling the usual community pharmacy to get the first non-hospital prescription by fax and compare the number of PIM with the prescription before hospitalization.

Detecting Delayed Discharge in Acute Geriatric Unit Using Natural Language Processing

Delayed discharge in geriatric units is a health and economic issue. There is no algorithm to automatically measure the appropriateness of admissions or hospital days. 30% of the days of hospitalization in acute geriatric units (AGU) are not appropriate. Waiting for a transfer to a follow-up care and rehabilitation unit (SSR) is the main risk factor for inappropriate days. The purpose of this project is to develop an algorithm using natural language processing to predict the appropriateness of an admission to UGA, or a day at UGA.

The ACT-ON: A Geriatric 5-Ms-Guided Physical Therapy Intervention for Knee Osteo-Arthritis in Older Adults.

The study is a Random control trail study conducted at King Khalid University Hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, focusing on Application of 5 framework in rehabilitation program of knee arthritis. The study will involve a in each group sample of 20 KOA patients, with a 12-month duration. The sample size was estimated using G\*Power 3.1 software, and the initial power analysis indicated that 40 participants would be required to achieve 80.0% statistical power. The study's participants will be aged between 55 and 80 years, diagnosed with Knee osteoarthritis, without cognitive impairment, knee surgery in the past 6 months, or unstable comorbidities. The study will involve in-person 16 sessions, with the first two lasting approximately one hour and the remaining session 30-45 minutes. The main outcome measures that will be used in this study are Stay Independent Brochure, Iconographical Falls Efficacy Scale (icon-FES), Timed Up and Go, 2-Minute Walk Test, 5 Time Set to Stand Test AND Arthritis Self-Efficacy Scale 8 Item (ASES-8), Patient-Specific Functional Scale (PSFS), and Patient satisfaction level with Physical Therapy service MedRisk. Data will be taken from direct questions to patients, by filling out the questionnaire via Google Form, and through some tests and SPSS will be used for data analysis, with ANOVA Test intervention scores of the outcome measures.

Effect of Enzymatic-Containing Mouth Spray (Oral7®) on Xerostomia Symptoms, Salivary Flow Rate, and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in Older Patients

Background: Xerostomia, or dry mouth, is a prevalent condition among older adults and has significant implications for oral and systemic health. It is associated with impaired chewing, swallowing, and speech, and increases the risk of oral infections, dental caries, and gum disease. Xerostomia may also contribute to malnutrition and aspiration pneumonia. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an enzymatic-containing mouth spray (Oral7®) on xerostomia symptoms, unstimulated salivary flow rate, and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in older patients with xerostomia. Methods: A single-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial will be conducted at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia from August 2025 to July 2026. Eligible participants aged 60 and above with self-reported xerostomia will be randomly assigned to receive either Oral7® Mouth Spray or a placebo spray for four weeks. The primary outcome is the mean change in Summated Xerostomia Inventory (SXI) scores between groups from baseline to post-intervention. Secondary outcomes include changes in unstimulated salivary flow rate using the sialometry technique and OHRQoL measured by the Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI) at baseline and three months post-intervention. Data will be analyzed using SPSS version 29. Conclusion: This trial will provide evidence on the efficacy of Oral7® Mouth Spray in alleviating xerostomia symptoms and improving salivary function and oral health-related quality of life in older adults, potentially guiding future clinical management of this condition.

Effect of Lateral Decubitus Position After Spinal Anesthesia on Hemodynamic Stability in High-Risk Geriatric Patients

Spinal anesthesia is a common and preferred anesthetic technique for lower extremity orthopedic surgery in elderly patients. However, it can cause a significant drop in blood pressure (hypotension), especially in high-risk older patients with multiple medical conditions. This complication can lead to serious consequences such as heart attack, stroke, or death in vulnerable patients. This study investigates whether keeping patients in a lateral (side-lying) position for 15 minutes after spinal anesthesia - instead of immediately turning them onto their back (supine position) - can reduce the risk of hypotension. When a patient lies on their side after receiving spinal anesthesia with a heavy (hyperbaric) local anesthetic, the medication tends to stay concentrated on the lower (operative) side, resulting in a more limited nerve block. This may help preserve blood pressure stability. We will enroll 70 patients aged 65 years or older with high anesthetic risk (ASA physical status III or IV) scheduled for unilateral lower extremity orthopedic surgery under spinal anesthesia. Patients will be randomly assigned to two groups: one group will be kept in the lateral decubitus position (operative side down) for 15 minutes before being turned supine, and the other group will be turned supine immediately after spinal anesthesia. Blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation will be monitored continuously. The primary outcome is the incidence of hypotension during the first 15 minutes after spinal anesthesia.

Validity and Reliability of the Turkish Form of the Enjoyment of Physical Activity Scale-8 in Geriatrics With Minimal Cognitive Impairment

The main objective of this study is to examine the validity and reliability of the Turkish form of the Enjoyment of Physical Activity Scale-8 (PACES-8) in individuals aged 65 and over with Minimal Cognitive Impairment (MCI).

This Study Investigates β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (HMB) and 2-hydroxybenzylamine (2-HOBA), When Administered Either Individually or in Combination Contributes to an Increased Quality of Health, Specifically Improving Muscular Strength and Cognitive Functioning in Adults Over the Age of 65.

In this study, participants will be assigned to receive HMB, 2-HOBA, a combination of both, or a comparison supplement for a set period of time. During the study, participants will attend scheduled visits where researchers will assess muscle strength, physical function, and overall health. Blood samples may be collected to measure markers related to metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Study staff will also monitor safety and any side effects throughout the study.

Validity and Reliability of the Exercise-Related Health Beliefs Attitude Scale in Geriatric Individuals

The main purpose of this research is to test the validity and reliability of the "Exercise Health Beliefs Attitude Scale" (EYSİTÖ), developed by Caz, Paktaş and Yazıcı (2023) for adult individuals, in geriatric individuals aged 65 and over.

Comparison of Hand Grip Strength in Different Shoulder Positions in Geriatric Individuals: Position-Dependent Strength Analysis

The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between hand grip strength, measured in different shoulder positions, and upper extremity muscle strength, and to reveal the clinical significance of position-dependent strength variation.

Geriatric Nursing Training Program for Nursing Students

This research will be conducted using a parallel randomized controlled trial design to investigate the effects of a nursing education program grounded in Travelbe's Human-to-Human Relationship theory on willingness to work with elderly individuals, empathy levels, and communication skills. The sample group will consist of third-year nursing students at a state university (intervention: 24; control: 24). The Willingness to Work with Elderly Individuals Scale, the Kiersma-Chen Empathy Scale, and the Communication Skills Scale will be used to collect data. The intervention group will receive a six-session nursing education program based on Travelbe's Human-to-Human Relationship theory. A repeated-measures ANOVA will be used to compare the mean scores across groups on the scales. In addition, independent-samples t-tests will be used for pre-test and post-test comparisons within groups, and Cohen's d and eta-squared will be used to estimate effect sizes. The data will be examined for normality. Parametric tests (One-sample t-test, ANOVA) will be applied to data that show normal distribution, and nonparametric tests (Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Wilcoxon test, Friedman test) will be applied to data that do not show normal distribution.

Validity and Reliability of the Exergame Enjoyment Questionnaire (EEQ) in Turkish

The aim of this research is to adapt the Exergame Enjoyment Questionnaire (EEQ) into Turkish and to evaluate its suitability for the Turkish elderly population through validity and reliability analyses. After the cultural adaptation process is completed, the construct validity of the scale will be evaluated using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses; its reliability will be assessed through internal consistency coefficients (Cronbach's alpha) and test-retest reliability over time (ICC). Accordingly, the study aims to provide a valid and reliable assessment tool for clinicians and researchers who wish to evaluate individual experiences in exergaming-based interventions.

Foot And Ankle Proprıoceptıve Exercıse Program

This study will be conducted to evaluate whether the foot and ankle proprioceptive exercise program contributes to foot posture, physical performance and fall incidence in geriatric individuals. Through this research, as a result of physiological changes that occur as age increases, foot posture and physical performance in geriatric individuals are negatively affected, and the incidence of falls increases, causing injuries. It is expected to achieve changes in foot posture, physical performance and fall incidence with the foot and ankle proprioceptive exercise program in geriatric individuals.

Comparative Effects of Balance and Inspiratory Muscle Training in Older Adults

This study aims to investigate and compare the effects of Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT), balance training, and a combination of both on respiratory muscle strength and balance in older adults. Aging is often associated with a decline in skeletal and respiratory muscle strength, which can increase the risk of falls and impact overall functionality. Participants aged 60 and over will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: Respiratory Muscle Training group (30 breaths, twice daily), Balance Training group (45-50 minute sessions, 3 days a week), Combined Training group (both IMT and balance exercises). The intervention will last for 8-weeks. Researchers will evaluate respiratory muscle strength, balance, core endurance, and functional capacity before and after the 8-week program to determine which approach is most effective in improving these parameters in the geriatric population.

Internal Jugular Vein Ultrasound for Predicting Hypotension in Geriatric Patients Undergoing Spinal Anesthesia

Spinal anesthesia-induced hypotension is a common and clinically significant complication in geriatric patients. Accurate preoperative assessment of intravascular volume status may help identify patients at risk. Internal jugular vein (IJV) ultrasonography is a noninvasive and easily applicable bedside method that reflects venous volume status. This prospective observational study aims to evaluate the role of preoperative IJV ultrasonographic measurements in predicting hypotension following spinal anesthesia in geriatric patients. Patients aged 65 years and older undergoing elective surgery under spinal anesthesia will be included. Preoperative IJV diameter, cross-sectional area, and collapsibility index will be measured using ultrasonography. Hemodynamic parameters will be monitored intraoperatively, and the occurrence of hypotension after spinal anesthesia will be recorded. The predictive value of IJV ultrasonographic parameters for post-spinal hypotension will be analyzed

Complications of Surgical Geriatrics Hospitalized in the Orinoco Region

The life expectancy of the Colombian population is increasing. Older patients are frequently hospitalized and treated in surgical wards, and are treated as the general surgical population. However, geriatric patients are frequently found with additional comorbidities, besides the primary surgical diagnosis. Some diseases, like hip fractures, diverticulitis, and cancer, are common in this age range. The preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative period requires a special care and planning to avoid complications related to the physical status, medications, and comorbidities. Studies about the geriatric surgical population are limited in the Orinoco region. The implementation of a comprehensive geriatric assesment in surgical services requires follow-up of outcomes.

Hip Fracture Surgery Timing and Blood Transfusion Risk in Patients on DOACs

This study looks at patients with hip fractures who are taking direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), a type of blood thinner. In many hospitals, surgery for these patients is delayed because of concerns about bleeding, but waiting longer can also increase risks such as complications and longer hospital stays. The purpose of this study is to find out whether operating within 24 hours is as safe as delaying surgery beyond 24 hours. Specifically, the investigators want to know if early surgery does not lead to a higher need for blood transfusions compared to delayed surgery.

Promoting Aging and Thriving With HIV

The pilot is an intervention of a geriatric assessment and management tool (PATH) in outpatient HIV clinics.

Occupation-Based Multicomponent Intervention to Reduce Fall Risk in Older Adults

This study aims to examine the effects of an occupation-based, multicomponent occupational therapy intervention on older adults aged 65 years and above with a history of falls living in the community. The intervention consists of 12 individualized sessions designed around the participants' meaningful occupations. It incorporates balance and gait training, environmental modifications, behavioral strategies, and safety-enhancing activities within a holistic framework. The sample will include 40 older adults who have experienced at least one fall in the past year. Data will be collected using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), Tinetti Balance and Gait Test, Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Pre- and post-intervention measurements will be compared to evaluate the program's effects on occupational performance, satisfaction, balance, and gait functions. The study is expected to provide valuable evidence on the effectiveness of occupation-based approaches in fall prevention interventions for older adults.

Validity and Reliability of the L Test in Geriatric Individuals

Age-related declines in mobility, gait speed, balance, and functional independence are major determinants of morbidity and fall risk among older adults. Widely used functional mobility assessments-such as the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) and the 10-Meter Walk Test (10MWT)-provide valuable information but do not fully capture the multidimensional motor tasks required in daily life, such as turning, directional changes, sit-to-stand transitions, and combined mobility tasks. The L Test, originally developed as an expanded form of TUG, includes turning, curved-path walking and a longer walking distance, and may therefore offer a more comprehensive assessment of functional mobility. Although previous studies have demonstrated high test-retest reliability and significant correlations with TUG in clinical populations such as Parkinson's disease and chronic conditions, evidence regarding the reliability and validity of the L Test in healthy geriatric individuals is lacking. This study aims to address this gap by evaluating the psychometric properties of the L Test in older adults. Purpose: The purposes of the study are to: Evaluate the test-retest reliability of the L Test in geriatric individuals. Determine its concurrent validity by examining relationships with TUG and 10MWT. Calculate measurement error indices including Standard Error of Measurement (SEM) and Minimal Detectable Change (MDC). Hypotheses H1: The L Test is a valid assessment tool for older adults. H2: The L Test demonstrates acceptable test-retest reliability (ICC ≥ 0.70). H3: The L Test shows a strong correlation with TUG (r ≥ 0.50). H4: The L Test shows a strong correlation with 10MWT (r ≥ 0.50). Study Design: A cross-sectional methodological study with repeated measures (test-retest) one week apart. Participants: Target population: Adults aged ≥65 years who can independently ambulate at least 10 meters. Sample size: 58 participants based on power analysis; increased to 70 to compensate for potential attrition. Sampling: Simple random sampling. Inclusion Criteria: ≥65 years of age Mini-Mental State Examination ≥24 Able to walk 10 meters independently Voluntary participation Exclusion Criteria: Lower limb surgery within the past 6 months Diagnosed cardiovascular, neurological, or pulmonary disease Visual or auditory impairments affecting test safety Procedures Participants will complete: L Test, Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), 10-Meter Walk Test (10MWT; normal and fast speed). One week later, all assessments will be repeated under the same conditions. Outcome Measures: Primary: L Test time (seconds) Secondary:TUG time, 10MWT time (normal and fast pace), SEM and MDC values. Pearson correlation with TUG and 10MWT Statistical Analysis: Test-retest reliability: ICC Concurrent validity: Pearson correlation coefficient Measurement error: SEM, MDC Significance level: p \< 0.05 Ethical Considerations: All tests conducted by trained physiotherapists. Continuous supervision to minimize fall risk. Written informed consent obtained. Participants may withdraw at any time. Confidentiality ensured Expected Outcomes: The study is expected to: Provide normative data for the L Test in the geriatric population Demonstrate the test's psychometric robustness Support the clinical use of the L Test for functional mobility screening Contribute to physiotherapy and geriatric rehabilitation literature

Collection of Digital Parameters From Parts of the Neurological Examination Using an Eye Tracker

The neurological examination (NE) is a cornerstone of clinical neurology, with ocular motor assessment being a key component. Technology offers an opportunity to augment and standardize parts of the NE. Eye-tracking systems provide objective quantitative data on eye movements by continuously tracking the eye over time. This data can be used to derive parameters like saccadic latency, gaze velocity, and fixation stability with a precision that is impossible to achieve through human observation by neurologists. The integration of such technology could enhance the traditional NE. Before such technology can be widely adopted, its feasibility and acceptability in a clinical population must be established. The primary purpose of this study is to assess the usability of a novel eye-tracking system from the patient's perspective when used in a clinical settings. A secondary purpose is to determine if quantitative data from the eye-tracker correlate with the findings of the traditional clinical neurological examination and to explore whether eye-tracking can provide additional, complementary information not typically captured by standard clinical assessment. To achieve these aims, the study will assess several outcome measures. The primary outcome measure is the Usability of the Eye-Tracking System, which will be measured using the System Usability Scale (SUS). Beyond the primary objectives, this study will investigate two secondary objectives. The first involves assessing the relationship between quantitative eye-tracking parameters and clinical ocular motor assessment. Specifically, the investigators will analyze objective, numerical data obtained from eye-tracking systems and the clinician's subjectively graded assessment of ocular movements derived from the standard neurological examination. The second is the exploratory analysis of novel eye-tracking biomarkers. This involves quantifying and analyzing eye-tracking parameters not typically assessed during a routine NE. For example, the dynamics of the pupillary light reflex or the frequency of microsaccades. The aim is to identify potential digital biomarkers that could provide additional objective insights into ocular motor function and neurological status.

A Novel Multisensory-Rhythmic Intervention in Geriatric Rehabilitation

Human performance takes shape from the dynamic interaction between person, environment, and task. Goal-directed action is a complex task, which requires the elderly to adapt their motor response according to the environment constraints and task requirements to accomplish the task goal. Among age-related problems, motor control deficits are often the main problems which restricts the frail elderly from maintaining independence for activities of daily living. Therefore, to preserve the quality of life, motor function of the elderly must be taken into consideration, including early detection of motor control problems and development of appropriate intervention strategy for persons with either healthy or pathological brain aging. Rhythmic skill training which is a new mode of dual tasks using rhythmic cueing as an external agent for facilitating an automatized motor task. During training, rhythmic skill training can provide multi-component of sensory stimulation, strengthen motor planning and optimize motor execution, therefore, it will improve the motor performance for the elderly or patients with mild cognitive impairment. In addition, the neuroplastic changes related to sensory processing, selective attention, or working memory demands through music rhythm training can facilitate the cognitive function for the elderly which is a current trend of geriatric rehabilitation. Moreover, the advantage of virtual reality is that it provides important information related to knowledge of result, which can induce better motor and cognitive training effects. Therefore, this research project will focus on assessing and intervening motor adaptation of upper extremity for the healthy elderly and patients with mild cognitive impairment. The first purpose of the project will analyze the difference in efficiency of responsive and predictive grasping motor adaptation among the healthy young adults, healthy elderly and patients with mild cognitive impairment through a test of perturbation-based of pinch-holding-up-activity, and use artificial intelligence for more accurate classification for the grasp pattern of healthy young adults, elderly and patients with mild cognitive impairment. The second one is to verify the effects of virtual-reality based rhythmic skill training system on the motor adaptation capability of upper limb and cognition for the elderly and patients with mild cognitive impairment.