Dr. Arne Kuhlmei
Period: April 1, 2007 to May 31, 2009
Center: Bethesda Geriatrische Klinik Ulm
Mentor: Prof. Dr. Thorsten Nikolaus
Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Thomas Becker
Consultant: PD Dr. Ulrich Müller
Description of research plan
Walking is an important determinant of independence in old age. Put simply, walking requires a complex interaction of joint movement, selectively controlled muscle activity and positional perception. This complex process can be disrupted at many levels, leading to unstable walking and ultimately to falls.
The prognostic and therapeutic status of walking can be evaluated in a study including a walking conference to improve understanding of the walking process using the results of the GAITRite® system and video-supported walking analysis, as well as the number of falls in a period of about one year. The test phase and establishment of a walking conference are already underway, so that the relevant data can be collected before the project begins. This will provide optimal input for planning the study.