Project 4

Is a recent history of multiple falls an early indication of cognitive dysfunction? An observational study of older fallers and non-fallers.

Project Goals - What are we doing?

Current evidence suggests a history of multiple falls may be an early indicator of impaired Executive Controlled Processes (ECP) in older adults. However, more research is needed to ascertain the utility of using a history of multiple falls as a clinical screen for impaired ECP.

Research Outcomes - What will be achieved?

Early identification and prevention of cognitive dysfunction could significantly reduce falls among older adults; this is particularly important as multifactorial falls prevention strategies have proven ineffective in reducing falls in those with cognitive impairment and dementia.

Background - Why is this research important?

About 30% of community-dwellers over the age of 65 experience one or more falls per year. Falls are the most frequent cause of injury-related morbidity and mortality among older people. In Canada, falls result in over 2.4 billion dollars annually in direct medical expenditure. Falls are associated with cognitive dysfunction. Therefore, if we are able to identify and prevent cognitive dysfunctional falls and falls related injuries and their associated costs would be reduced.

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Project Team

Principal Investigator:

Teresa Liu-Ambrose, PhD
Assistant Professor
Department of
Physical Therapy, UBC
Brain Research Centre
Centre for Hip Health

Co-Investigators:

Todd Handy, PhD
Karim Khan, MD, PhD

Research Expertise:

Falls Prevention, Exercise Prescription, Bone Health

Contact Information:

357-2647 Willow Street
Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1L8
teresa.ambrose@ubc.ca
604-875-4111 EXT 62095

Funding Support:

Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)