Aging clinical and experimental research
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Randomized Controlled Trial
A randomized controlled trial of fall prevention by a high-intensity functional exercise program for older people living in residential care facilities.
Falls are particularly common among older people living in residential care facilities. The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the effectiveness of a high-intensity functional exercise program in reducing falls in residential care facilities. ⋯ In older people living in residential care facilities, a high-intensity functional exercise program may prevent falls among those who improve their balance.
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In elderly Danes, reference intervals for hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations are derived from younger population groups. The aim was to examine reference intervals for Hb and cut-off limits for anemia by application of criteria for normality to a representative population of 80-year-olds. ⋯ WHO decision limits for anemia should not be lowered in 80-year-old subjects. "Optimal" Hb concentrations with respect to survival appear to be at least 140 g/L in men and 131 g/L in women. Further research should evaluate whether not only treating anemia, but also increasing Hb by using erythropoietin and hematinics, may improve functional status and survival in the elderly.