Falls are among the most common causes of traumatic brain injury among older adults, and core member Hilaire Thompson, Ph.D., RN, is investigating ways to help prevent this type of injury. Part of Thompson’s current work includes the Falls and Cognitive Training Study, which examines whether cognitive interventions help improve balance and gait, which in turn can help prevent falls. After a promising pilot study, the research received a $250,000 research grant from the National Institute for Nursing Research last year.
Thompson’s research has focused on improving traumatic brain injury outcomes in older adults by identifying both biological changes and aspects of care that can influence those outcomes. She will also speak about special considerations for older TBI patients in HIPRC’s Adult TBI webinar on April 25 for public health and medical professionals.
Individuals interested in participating in the study can contact Adrienne James at 206-482-8372 or ajames1@uw.edu to learn more.
Additional Reading:
“Computer Game May Prevent Seniors from Falling Down,” King 5 News, March 15, 2017.
“Traumatic Brain Injury in the Elderly: Burden, Risk Factors, and Prevention,” Journal of Trauma Nursing; July-August 2015; Krishnamoorthy V, Distelhorst JT, Vavilala MS, Thompson H.
This brief is part of a series featuring recent and ongoing TBI research by Harborview Injury Prevention and Research Center members. Read more from this research series or visit the TBI Research Section website.