How can we maintain our quality of life well into old age? What measures can help to prevent falls and make our homes safer? Answers to these questions were provided at the ‘Fit & Safe’ information event at OTH Regensburg, which was organised by the Research Centre for Orthopaedics and Ergonomics under the direction of Prof. Dr Joachim Grifka. Around 80 interested attendees gathered in Lecture Theatre D 002.
Prof. Dr Annette Meussling-Sentpali, representative for the central development focus on health, opened the event with a welcome address. She emphasised the special role of OTH Regensburg as a health sciences university in Bavaria: “OTH Regensburg is the ideal venue for this event because we combine academic expertise with practical training. Our students are trained to work in direct patient care – in doctors’ surgeries, delivery theatres, care homes and hospitals.”
Innovative approaches at OTH Regensburg
At the same time, she highlighted innovative and interdisciplinary approaches in research and teaching, such as the use of virtual reality applications, digital solutions to reduce loneliness, and modern image recognition techniques for chronic wounds. The topic of health is also firmly embedded in OTH Regensburg’s University Development Plan (HEP) and has a lasting influence on the university’s strategic direction.
In the first session, Dr Ralph Paloncy, Medical Director of ZAR Regensburg, spoke on the topic “Staying fit as you age – but how?”. He made it clear that prevention goes far beyond simply avoiding falls. It is important to identify and treat comorbidities such as high blood pressure, osteoarthritis or diabetes at an early stage and in a holistic manner. The aim is to lead an independent life in one’s own home for as long as possible – supported by knowledge, networks and appropriate preventive measures.
Prof. Dr Joachim Grifka then joined forces with Silvia Dullien, a sports scientist at the Research Centre for Orthopaedics and Ergonomics, and Dr Agathe Thurn, a junior doctor at the centre, to demonstrate in a practical way how exercise therapy can be implemented in practice. The focus was primarily on the importance of physical activity in everyday life. Prof. Dr Grifka and his team at the research centre have developed training sessions for the joints and spine. In addition, special programmes have been created for older people, aimed at achieving a balanced combination of strength, mobility and coordination.
Simple but effective exercises for at home
The break was organised as an activity break with practical demonstrations. Simple yet highly effective exercises were demonstrated that can be carried out at home, such as calf raises whilst brushing your teeth or standing at the coffee machine.
In the second part of the symposium, Markus Donhauser, an architect at the State Office for Accessibility – who also holds consultation days at the Regensburg District Office – and Melanie Kagerer, Head of the Housing and Technology Unit at the City of Regensburg’s Office for Senior Citizens, demonstrated which measures can be implemented within one’s own home. For example, tripping hazards at balcony and patio doors can be avoided by fitting a front-door threshold profile. Much can already be achieved using simple aids and lighting controls, fall sensors or home adaptations, which are co-funded by the care insurance scheme from care level 1 onwards.
Personal interaction was a particular priority for the speakers. Throughout the event, there were regular opportunities for questions and one-to-one discussions. The lively participation demonstrated just how great the interest is in practical solutions suitable for everyday life.
