The Versa (prediction for maintaining independence in old age) study is a sub-project within the BMBF-funded joint project AEQUIPA (Physical activity and health equity: primary prevention for healthy ageing). The aim of the study is to examine whether a sensor-based assessment as a two-point delta measurement over 6 months is a more suitable approach than a single-point measurement for recognising functional decline in senior citizens at an early stage. Established geriatric tests of physical functionality and mobility, the measurement of body composition and a sensor-based movement analysis are used to characterise the study participants. A sensor belt (accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer and barometer) will make it possible to analyse movement and individual physical activity over the longer term.

Muscle strength, balance and endurance are crucial for safe locomotion. Regular training is necessary to maintain these factors and prevent functional decline. With the help of technology, functional decline can be recognised and older people can be supported in their exercises.

The Versa study is intended to help recognise gradual functional decline in senior citizens as early as possible. The project contributes both to the development of a technology-based intervention to promote exercise in old age and to the networking of technologies for individual health care as part of primary prevention. A total of 251 test subjects aged between 70 and 89 were included in this study. The measurements were taken at three points in time over a period of two years.

The Versa study in the AEQUIPA project is funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) between 02/2015 and 01/2018.

Partners involved:

• University Clinic for Geriatrics Oldenburg of the University of Oldenburg
• Geriatric Centre at AGAPLESION BETHANIEN KRANKENHAUS HEIDELBERG, Chair of Geriatrics at the University of Heidelberg (Prof. Bauer)
• Department of Technology and Health for People at the Jade University of Applied Sciences Oldenburg (Prof Koppelin)
• OFFIS (Institute for Computing Science, Prof Boll-Westermann)