Clinical Research Directory

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.

COMPARISON OF THE EFFICACY OF CONVENTIONAL EXERCISE AND PILATES IN PRE-FRAIL AND FRAIL 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Three-month Follow-up Analysis of Social Recommendations Issued by the Mobile Geriatric Team

This single-center, prospective, observational cohort study aims to evaluate the actual implementation rate of social recommendations formulated by the Mobile Geriatric Team at Saint-Étienne University Hospital three months after hospital discharge. These recommendations may include human assistance, technical aids, financial aid applications, legal protective measures, or referrals to appropriate care structures. A structured telephone interview at three months will assess the degree of implementation, explore associated barriers (administrative, cognitive, organizational, ...), and investigate any potential link with hospital readmissions or changes in patients' living situations.

Association Between Early Consultation by the Primary Care Physician After Hospitalization in Geriatric Medicine Department, and the Risk of Re-hospitalization at 1 and 3 Months

The time it takes for patients to be readmitted to hospital is a major public health issue, both in terms of medical time and costs. In fact, 15% of patients of all ages are likely to be re-hospitalized within a month of hospitalization. Today, hospitalizations present a significant nosocomial risk, all the more so in fragile populations. If these hospitalizations are long or repeated, it is crucial to develop solutions to reduce their number. Elderly people often have a number of complementary pathologies and frailties, which are frequently destabilized during hospitalization or on discharge. In this context of medico-social and financial stakes, a 2012 survey showed that 86% of French physicians would be prepared to make themselves available within 24-48 hours of hospital discharge if the situation justified it. Changes in medical demographics are forcing primary care physicians to adapt their practices, and the evidence of a reduced risk of re-hospitalization would make it possible to prioritize the provision of this consultation on discharge from hospital. Post-hospitalization follow-up consultations with the primary care physician are recommended, but investigators have very little data on their benefits. Investigators hypothesise that an early consultation (1 month post-hospitalization at most) by an elderly patient's primary care physician after hospitalization in geriatric medicine promotes: patient follow-up; reduced risk of re-hospitalization within 3 months. The aim of this study is to determine the association of an early consultation by the primary care physician in the month following discharge from geriatric medicine hospitalization with rehospitalization rates within 3 months.

Burst Suppressions in Diabetic Elderly

This observational study aims to learn about the effects of diabetes mellitus in intraoperative electroencephalography (EEG) of elderly patients receiving general anesthesia. The main question it seeks to answer is: Is there a relation between preoperative diabetes, intraoperative electroencephalogram suppression ratio, and postoperative delirium? Participants aged over 65, receiving general anesthesia as part of their anesthesia plan for surgery of any kind, will be monitored with EEG and cerebral oximetry intraoperatively to record burst suppressions and questioned for delirium for 48 hours postoperatively.

Effects of Immersive Virtual Reality on Physical Function, Fall-Related Outcomes, Fatigue, and Quality of Life in Older Adults

To investigate the effectiveness of an immersive virtual reality intervention on physical fitness, balance, physical activity level, risk of falling, fear of falling, fatigue, and quality of life in older adults compared to an active control group (ACG).

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 the Hunova Robotic Systems. 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 Traditional Balance and Mobility Exercise which are more generalized. Given the generalized nature of Traditional approaches, we aim to compare it with the Hunova Robotic Systems in the enhancement of Balance, Postural Stability, Functional Gait and Fall Efficacy in older adults.

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.

Investigation of Respiratory Muscle Sarcopenia in Geriatric Individuals

The increase in the elderly population worldwide necessitates further research on age-related physiological changes and health problems related to these changes in geriatric individuals. One of these problems, sarcopenia, is a syndrome characterized by a decrease in muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance due to aging (Cruz-Jentoft et al., 2019). Sarcopenia affects not only the extremity muscles but also the respiratory muscles, significantly reducing the individual's functional capacity and quality of life (Shafiee et al., 2017). Sarcopenia is a progressive and widespread loss of skeletal muscles, characterized by a decrease in muscle strength, muscle mass, and physical performance. Although it is usually seen in older individuals, it can also occur in people with certain diseases or who lead a sedentary lifestyle. The European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP) has developed a guideline for the diagnosis of sarcopenia and determination of its severity (Cruz-Jentoft et al., 2019). In line with this guideline, the EWGSOP considers sarcopenia in three basic stages: pre-sarcopenia, sarcopenia, and severe sarcopenia (Cruz-Jentoft et al., 2010). Pre-sarcopenia is the stage in which muscle mass is low but muscle strength or physical performance is not yet affected. Sarcopenia is the stage in which low muscle mass is accompanied by decreased muscle strength or low physical performance. Severe sarcopenia is defined as the most advanced stage in which all these criteria are met (Cruz-Jentoft et al., 2010). Respiratory muscle sarcopenia is defined as muscle fiber atrophy and weakness in the respiratory muscles. The Japanese Respiratory Sarcopenia Study Group defines this condition as whole-body sarcopenia with low respiratory muscle mass, decreased respiratory muscle strength, and/or respiratory dysfunction (Nagano et al., 2021). Kera et al. (2019) evaluated respiratory muscle sarcopenia according to the peak expiratory flow rate value. However, whole-body sarcopenia and respiratory muscle strength are considered important parameters in the definition and diagnosis of respiratory muscle sarcopenia. It is reported that the rate of respiratory muscle sarcopenia is higher in the presence of sarcopenia (Nagano et al., 2021). Sarcopenic respiratory failure is diagnosed in the presence of sarcopenia accompanied by functional disability, while individuals without functional disability but at risk for respiratory muscle sarcopenia are considered "at risk of sarcopenic respiratory failure" (Nagano et al., 2021). Sarcopenia is thought to be associated with insulin resistance and oxidative stress, leading to decreased muscle strength and muscle mass, as well as muscle atrophy (Ding et al., 2019). Respiratory muscles may also be affected in a similar way. Thus, weakening of respiratory muscles may lead to decreased respiratory function and decreased quality of life. In the current literature, studies examining the effects of aging on respiratory muscles are limited. Therefore, determining the potential effects of aging on respiratory muscles and evaluating respiratory muscle sarcopenia in this context may provide an important contribution to the development of new approaches and the literature.

Comparing Music-Supported and Traditional Aerobic Training in Geriatric Health Outcomes

The aim of this study is to comparatively evaluate the effects of a music therapy-based aerobic exercise program and traditional aerobic exercise training on cardiopulmonary functions, functional capacity, balance, peripheral muscle strength, cognitive functions, depression level and quality of life in geriatric individuals.

Geriatric Trauma Care Program for Living Alone Older Adults With Injuries

To examine the long-term effects of the Geriatric Trauma Care Program (GTCP) regarding pain, functional disability, depression, loneliness, and health-related quality of life among older adults with traumatic injuries who live alone.

Nutritional Status and Patient Characteristics Upon Length of Stay, Clinical Outcome, and Survival in Older Hospitalized Patients

Disease-related malnutrition (DRM) describes undernutrition or imbalances in energy, protein, or other nutrient-needs, caused by a concomitant disease. Nutritional status plays a vital role in the fate of hospitalized patients, and DRM is associated with loss of function and decreased survival. DRM is a common condition in patients with acute illnesses, approximately 30% among medical inpatients are malnourished when admitteed to the hospital, and rise higher among the older or critically ill. Physiologically malnutrition is associated with a) poorer tissue healing and restitution after severe disease, b) suppressed immune function and resistance towards infections, c) poorer metabolic defense towards critical disease, d) delayed and poorer progress of chronic diseases. In addition, inadequate nutrition is coupled to a prolonged hospital stay, resulting in more readmissions, and overall higher mortality in hospital patients. Yet, nutritional status of patients upon hospital admittance is seldom systematically assessed and the consequences of DRM in older acutely admitted patients still needs to be understood. This project will provide a detailed description of nutritional, physiolgical, and biochemical status of 1500 acutely admitted patients. In relation, the study will investigate the relation between patient characteristics and disease progression. The obtained data will also be coupled to patient registers to investigate the link between length of hospital stay, readmissions and acute contact, and mortality.

Feasibility of Physical Activity in Older Adults With Haematological Malignancies: ACCES Study

The aim of this study is to implement a simple and unsupervised home-based physical activity (PA) program for cancer patients in 2 oncogeriatric units in Toulouse Hospital (day hospital and week hospital).

The SaVe Project-Sarcopenia and Vertigo in Aging Patients With Colorectal Cancer

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn about the cause of dizziness and decline in walking ability in in older adults ≥65 years during chemotherapy treatment for colorectal cancer. Another goal is to investigate if a comprehensive geriatric assessment and three months' specialized physical group-based exercise three times/week can counteract muscle weakness, vertigo, instability, impaired walking balance, and neuropathy