As people age, changes in balance and memory can make daily life more difficult and increase the risk of falls. Falls are one of the main causes of injury, hospitalization and loss of independence in older adults, while even mild declines in memory and concentration can reduce confidence, social participation and overall quality of life. Therefore, safe, affordable, and practical ways to help older adults remain steady on their feet and mentally sharp are urgently needed.
The aim of this project is therefore to conduct a pilot feasibility randomized controlled trial to examine whether regular home-based photobiomodulation can improve balance and cognitive function in adults aged over 60. If successful, this research could help shape future strategies for preventing falls, enhancing wellbeing and maintaining independence in older people.
Aged from 60-80 years
Ability to complete written questionnaires independently
Able to provide informed consent
Current or past history of head injury
Use of medications acting on the central nervous system
Active skin conditions on the forehead or scalp
Ongoing brain stimulation therapy
Parallel
Photobiomodulation
Device8-weeks photobiomodulation
Sham 8-weeks photobiomodulation
Other interventionThe sham device will follow the same protocol but without active light emission.
n-1-back (deviation)
The n-1-back (deviation) task is a working memory test where participants respond when the current stimulus differs from the one presented n-1 trials earlier.
n-1-back (deviation)
The n-1-back (deviation) task is a working memory test where participants respond when the current stimulus differs from the one presented n-1 trials earlier.
n-1-back (deviation)
The n-1-back (deviation) task is a working memory test where participants respond when the current stimulus differs from the one presented n-1 trials earlier.
n-2-back (deviation)
The n-2-back (deviation) task is a working memory test where participants respond when the current stimulus differs from the one presented n-2 trials earlier.
n-2-back (deviation)
The n-2-back (deviation) task is a working memory test where participants respond when the current stimulus differs from the one presented n-2 trials earlier.
n-2-back (deviation)
The n-2-back (deviation) task is a working memory test where participants respond when the current stimulus differs from the one presented n-2 trials earlier.
n-1-back (post-deviation)
The n-1-back (post-deviation) task assesses working memory performance on the trial immediately following a deviation from the stimulus presented n-1 trials earlier.
Click on the lead sponsor to view all of their trials.
