"Text It" program to track falls in patients with Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Issue 1 (7th April 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kamil, Rebecca J.; Bakar, Dara; Ehrenburg, Matthew; Frankenthaler, Scott; Wei, Eric X.; Anson, Eric; Oh, Esther; Agrawal, Yuri
• Is Part Of: Alzheimer's & dementia. Volume 4:Issue 1(2018)
• Page Start: 137
• Page End: 140
• Publication Date: 2018-04-07
• Subjects: Text It -- Alzheimer's disease -- Falls -- Dementia -- Mobile health; Dementia -- Periodicals; Dementia -- Treatment -- Periodicals; Alzheimer's disease -- Treatment -- Periodicals; Alzheimer's disease -- Periodicals; 616.831
• DOI: 10.1016/j.trci.2018.03.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2352-8737

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: Falls are a significant problem among older adults with Alzheimer's disease, leading to high rates of fracture, hospitalization, and death. Tracking falls in older adults, particularly those with cognitive impairment, is a clinical and research challenge. Methods: This prospective pilot study evaluated the feasibility of a text message program to track falls among patients with dementia. We also compared this technique with the calendar method of fall data collection. Results: There was a 96% completion rate of text messaging and 100% of calendars; however, the text‐gathered data were more accurate. Discussion: A text‐messaging platform to track falls shows promise in cognitively impaired individuals.