NCT07109466 · VA Office of Research and Development
Targeting the Hip Abductors to Reduce Falls in Older Veterans Through A Virtual Multimodal Balance Intervention
(Virtual MMBI)
What this study is about
Falls are a major health concern and a leading cause of injurious death and non-fatal injuries in older Veterans who are at greater risk for falls than non-Veterans. This in-person exercise intervention targeting changes in the hip muscles, known to play a major role in balance, has been effective at reducing falls in older Veterans.
View original scientific description
Falls are a major health concern and a leading cause of injurious death and non-fatal injuries in older Veterans who are at greater risk for falls than non-Veterans. This in-person exercise intervention targeting changes in the hip muscles, known to play a major role in balance, has been effective at reducing falls in older Veterans. Gerofit is a VA best practice health promotion program that demonstrates good success in engaging Veterans in exercise. However, the role of Gerofit in fall prevention is unknown. Some Veterans may require additional training prior to participation in Gerofit to maximize the benefits of Gerofit. The proposed intervention will use novel home-based methods of exercise to improve hip muscles prior to participating in Gerofit. The goal of this study is to evaluate if a live virtual home-based multimodal balance intervention done prior to Gerofit compared to Gerofit alone will have a greater benefit on fall risk reduction and improved muscle and mobility function.
Interventions
OTHER
Mulit-modality Balance Intervention
Participants will attend a virtual group balance class that focuses on movement and obstacle negotiation 3 times per week for 3-months
OTHER
Gerofit
Participation in a virtual wellness program that consists of a warm up, aerobic training, and general strength training 3-times per week for up to 12 months
Primary outcome measures
Balance
Time frame: 3-months
The four-square step test will be used as a measure of balance. The change in the amount of time it takes to complete the four-square step test comparing pre and post-intervention.
Isometric Hip Abductor Strength
Time frame: 3-months
A measure of the maximal isometric muscle strength produced in hip abductor muscles will be assessed with a handheld dynamometer device. Pre-test levels will be compared to post-intervention levels.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Veteran Status
- VA Primary Care Provider
- Enrolled in the VA Maryland Health Care System for health care
- At risk for falls
Exclusion criteria
- Poorly controlled hypertension
- Home oxygen use
- Contraindications to exercise or resistance exercise
- Significant cognitive impairment
- Other medical condition precluding patient participation in this study as per medical judgment of study team
Where
- Baltimore, Maryland
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Oct 2, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations