Reducing Serious Fall Injuries in Older Adults with Wearable Technology
Author Information
Author(s): Kinosian Bruce, Stefanacci Richard
Primary Institution: Philadelphia Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Hypothesis
The Tango® Belt will reduce the incidence of serious fall injuries in older adults compared to standard fall mitigation protocols.
Conclusion
The study found that the Tango® Belt significantly reduced major hip injuries and hospitalizations among older adults compared to historical controls.
Supporting Evidence
- The Tango® Belt reduced major hip injuries from 12.1% to 1.1%.
- Hospitalizations were reduced from 18.9% to 8.2% with the belt.
- Emergency department visits decreased from 17.8% to 6.0% among users.
Takeaway
Wearing a special belt can help older people avoid serious injuries when they fall.
Methodology
A six-month comparative study with historical controls across 10 communities, comparing fall outcomes between users of the Tango® Belt and matched historical controls.
Limitations
The study relied on historical controls and had a compliance rate of 67%.
Participant Demographics
Older adults in Pennsylvania and California.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.004
Statistical Significance
p=0.004
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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