Tayside volunteers wanted for falls study

Published On Fri 24 Jan 2014 by Roddy Isles

A University of Dundee study looking to develop a fresh approach to reducing falls among people in old age is asking for volunteers throughout Tayside.

The PREFACE study (Preventing Falls with ACE inhibitors) is looking at whether a group of commonly prescribed drugs known as ACE inhibitors, which are used for heart problems, may also improve muscles and balance and thus help reduce susceptibility to falls.

'One in three older people in Tayside falls at least once each year, incidents which are worrying for them and their families and can have serious consequences like injuries, fractures, disability, and loss of confidence,' said Dr Deepa Sumukadas, from Ageing and Health in the University's School of Medicine.

'Poor balance often contributes to falls. While exercise and balance training are useful, not everyone is willing or able to do this, so fresh approaches to reducing falls are needed.

'We think it is possible that these ACE inhibitor drugs used for heart problems might also improve muscles and balance. As a first step in finding out whether this is correct, we are studying the effect an ACE inhibitor has on balance. If effective, this could provide a convenient and attractive treatment for older people at risk of falling.'

The study is aiming to recruit people aged 65 years or over in the Tayside area who have had one or more falls in the past 12 months and who have sought medical advice for their falls.

People who take part will be given either an ACE inhibitor pill or a matching dummy pill to take for 15 weeks. Each person who takes part will have a 50:50 chance of getting the ACE inhibitor and neither the researchers nor the participants will know who has got which. Balance and muscle strength will be measured before starting the pills and again after 15 weeks.

For more information about the study or how to take part, please phone Ageing and Health in Ninewells Hospital on 01382 383086 during office hours.

The study is supported by a grant of £180,000 from the Scottish Government's Chief Scientist Office.

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