Challenges and Opportunities for Harmonizing Research Methodology: Raw Accelerometry.

Objectives: Raw accelerometry is increasingly being used in physical activity research, but diversity in sensor design, attachment and signal processing challenges the comparability of research results. Therefore, efforts are needed to harmonize the methodology. In this article we reflect on how increased methodological harmonization may be achieved.

Description of spatio-temporal gait parameters in elderly people and their association with history of falls: results of the population-based cross-sectional KORA-Age study.

Background: In this epidemiological study we described the characteristics of spatio-temporal gait parameters among a representative, population-based sample of 890 community-dwelling people aged 65 to 90 years. In addition, we investigated the associations between certain gait parameters and a history of falls in study participants.

Methods: In descriptive analyses spatio-temporal gait parameters were assessed according to history of falls, frailty, multimorbidity, gender, multiple medication use, disability status, and age group.

Association between anemia and falls in community-dwelling older people: cross-sectional results from the KORA-Age study.

Background: Falls and fractures are among the principal causes of disability, and mortality of older people. Therefore, identifying treatable risk factors for falls in this population is very important. Here we evaluate the association between anemia and falls in community-dwelling people aged 65 years and older.

Where to wear accelerometers to measure physical activity in people?

13 volunteers walked on a treadmill at 6 different speeds while wearing different accelerometers on different body positions, a spirometry unit and heart rate devices. The goal of this experiment was to find which position on a person's body and which of the sensors is best to measure physical activity (PA) in people by means of an accelerometer.