A Study of Why People With Early Memory Problems Fall or Almost Fall

Factors Associated With Falls and Near-Falls in Community Dwelling Older Adults With Early-Stage Dementia

The purpose of this study is to identify the factors that are associated with falls and near falls in community-dwelling older adults with early-stage dementia.

The specific objectives of this six month study are to: characterize falls and near-falls in community dwelling older adults with early-stage dementia; determine which potentially modifiable physical fall risk factors contribute to falls and near-falls in older adults with early-stage dementia; examine the relationship between dementia sub-type, medical and neuropsychological factors, balance and gait, and falls and near-falls in community dwelling older adults with early-stage dementia.

Inclusion Criteria:

• males or females over the age of 50 with early-stage dementia as described by Global Deterioration Scale levels 2,3,4 or 5.

Exclusion Criteria:

• subjects who have a medical condition that significantly predispose them to falls (Meneire's disease or Parkinson's disease)
• subjects without a caregiver/spouse to assist with the completion of a Fall Diary
• subjects unable to stand independently or safely walk a short distance either unaided or with the support of an assistive device
• subjects unable to safely complete the balance and gait evaluations.