Falls are a leading cause of injury, disability, and mortality among adults aged 65 and older, with Luxembourg consistently ranking among the highest in Europe for fall incidence and fall-related deaths. Addressing this critical public health challenge, the FLUX1 project successfully established a comprehensive framework for fall risk assessment in older adults. Building upon these results, the FLUX2 project now seeks to evaluate targeted intervention strategies designed to prevent falls and promote functional independence.
FLUX2 is a controlled intervention study conducted through a collaborative effort between GERO, the University of Luxembourg, and the Luxembourg Institute for Health and Sport Science Research. The study enrols 100 participants aged 65 years and above, stratified into three intervention groups: (1) motor and physical training, (2) cognitive training, and (3) combined motor-cognitive training. Stratification is based on key parameters such as age, gender, fall history, physical activity levels, and baseline fall risk assessment outcomes.
Each intervention spans a 10-week training period, followed by comprehensive fall risk assessments at baseline and post-intervention to evaluate changes in risk indicators and functional outcomes. Additionally, a 12-month follow-up will monitor fall incidence rates. To capture improvements under real-life conditions, all participants are equipped with sensorized insoles, enabling continuous monitoring of foot pressure distribution and gait stability throughout the study.
Advanced statistical analyses assess the comparative effectiveness of the three training modalities in reducing fall risk and enhancing mobility. By integrating precise risk assessment with targeted interventions, FLUX2 aspires to establish a scalable and sustainable model for fall prevention that fosters autonomy, reduces fall-related injuries, and mitigates the associated healthcare burden. Preliminary findings will be presented at the symposium.