Examining the Feasibility of a Mindfulness Intervention for the Prevention of Falls: A Pilot Study. Issue 4 (6th December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hoang, Peter; Moore, Kim; Kwan, Matthew
• Is Part Of: Canadian journal on aging. Volume 39:Issue 4(2020)
• Page Start: 626
• Page End: 633
• Publication Date: 2020-12-06
• Subjects: vieillissement, -- chutes, -- prévention des chutes, -- personnes âgées, -- gériatrie, -- pleine conscience; ageing, -- falls, -- falls prevention, -- older adults, -- geriatrics, -- mindfulness; Gerontology -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- Canada -- Periodicals; 612.6705
• DOI: 10.1017/S0714980820000033
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0714-9808

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This pilot study was designed to assess the feasibility of implementing a mindfulness intervention in the prevention of falls. We employed a quasi-experimental design consisting of 22 participants from two retirement homes in Ontario partaking in the regional falls prevention class. Participants were assigned to either an eight-week intervention, comprising mindfulness exercises incorporated into the standard falls prevention class, or to the standard falls prevention class. Participants were assessed using the Tinetti Balance and Gait Scale and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. The mindfulness intervention showed no significant effect on TUG or balance scores; however, there was a significant effect on assessments of gait. Given the ease of implementation of mindfulness-based interventions, further research may be warranted in mindfulness as a potential modality for falls prevention.