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Over-70s sought for physiotherapy tests

Friday 6th February 2009

People aged 70 and over are being recruited to take part in a physiotherapy study, it has emerged.

Researchers at the University of Aberdeen and NHS Grampian are examining the potential of the Nintendo Wii Fit to help improve the balance of older people who are prone to falling.

Successful applicants will be required to attend twice-weekly sessions over a period of three months at Woodend Hospital in Aberdeen.

They will take part in activities including simple balance games and will be trainned by researchers in the moves that are required on the console's balance board.

Commenting on the impetus behind the study, Dr Marie Fraser, specialist registrar at Woodend Hospital in Aberdeen, said: "Falls are the most common cause of accidental injury in older people and the most common cause of accidental death in [people aged] 75 ... and over."

Last month, the Nursing Times reported research which had been conducted on techniques to improve the quality of life for asthma sufferers.

The study, which involved patients receiving three sessions of physiotherapist-supervised breathing training, found that such assistance can reduce the anxiety and depression experienced by some sufferers of the condition.

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