We are looking for people with COPD who are starting the outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation program (Day Hospital) to take part in a study to evaluate the long-term effects of balance training on falls. If you decide to participate, you will be asked to attend three (3) assessments lasting about two (2) hours each (one at the beginning and end of the rehabilitation program and one year after finishing the rehabilitation program). During your pulmonary rehabilitation program, you may be asked to do two (2) additional balance training sessions at West Park per week as well as one on your own at home. You will be asked to return monthly fall and exercise diary calendars and you will also receive a monthly phone call to ask about any recent medical issues or falls. Finally, you will receive a home visit every three (3) months after finishing the rehabilitation program to assess your balance. If you have COPD, have noticed a decline in your balance or have had a fall or near fall in the last 2 years, and will be participating in the outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation program at West Park, this study is for you!
If you are interested in participating or learning more about this study, please contact Cindy Ellerton at 416-243-3600 ext. 2653 or Cindy.Ellerton@westpark.org