The West Orange Chamber of Commerce is bringing UCF aging research to Vibrant West Orange, following an overwhelming response to UCF's Science Café in May. Adults 55 and older from the entire community are invited to a full day of research opportunities through UCF's Disability, Aging, and Technology Cluster, where they can meet researchers, ask questions and take part in studies. Participation times vary by study, and some opportunities may require advance registration.
Two NeuroMechanical Systems Lab studies will be offered. One, which does not require signup, takes 5 to 8 minutes and assesses manual dexterity by having participants move small or large block-shaped objects while counting how fast they perform the tasks. The other requires signup and takes 45 minutes, examining whether playing iPad games affects standing balance; participants stand on a Wii balance board before and after playing about 35 minutes of video games on an iPad.
The Healthy Aging Lab in the College of Nursing requires signup for a study of SafeFall Coach, a mobile app that combines interactive, video-based learning with AI-driven feedback so older adults can practice safe movement techniques based on their mobility levels. It takes about three months, starting with an orientation visit of roughly 60 minutes that includes informed consent, questionnaires, physical assessments, app orientation, installation and practice activities, followed by home use and brief monthly follow-up questionnaires expected to take about 10 to 15 minutes.
Hello World Solutions, affiliated with the College of Nursing, does not require signup for its PorchLink study. PorchLink is a passive signal platform that detects early changes in daily function for older adults aging in place and works with smart home devices participants already own, with no cameras, audio or new hardware. Enrollment at the research day takes about 15 minutes, and participation continues at home for 8 weeks, with daily app checks of about 2 minutes and a weekly in-app check-in of about 1 minute. The goal is to learn whether the approach brings peace of mind to seniors and their care circle.
Press release issued by West Orange Chamber of Commerce:
https://wochamber.com/ucfs-aging-research-event-at-vibrant-west-orange/
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