https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/rss-feeds/health-research-news-rss en-us Wed, 01 Jan 2020 00:00:00 PST Fri, 16 Oct 2026 15:02:46 PST 2026 Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc. 60 https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/balance-exercise-apps-reduce-fall-related-injuries <![CDATA[ Kaiser Permanente research in Colorado found that accessible balance training may help some older adults stay healthy and independent.]]> Tue, 13 Oct 2026 23:00:00 PST <![CDATA[ <div> <div></div> <div></div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div id="c07-text-2789a8e0a7"> <p>Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. They can lead to other health problems and increase health care costs. That’s why Wendolyn Gozansky, MD, an internal medicine doctor and geriatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Colorado, is always looking for new ways to reduce fall risk.</p> <p>And Dr. Gozansky and her research team may have found a handy new answer: mobile apps.</p> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div id="c07-text-8d15d6a8e8"> <p>More than 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year. Falls can lead to serious injuries, hospital stays, and loss of independence. They can also affect long-term health. Treating falls and related health issues often requires more intensive and costly care.</p> <p>Doctors have long known that exercise can help improve balance and strength. The challenge is that many older adults may not participate because of barriers such as transportation, scheduling, cost, mobility issues, or limited access to structured programs.</p> <h2>Making fall prevention more accessible</h2> <p>Dr. Gozansky and her team at the Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research wanted to see if there was a simple way to help older adults who face those barriers reduce their risk of falls.</p> <p>Researchers looked at how a balance-training app impacted the rates of fall-related injuries for Kaiser Permanente members in Colorado age 60 and older. The research was published in the <a href="https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jgs.70544">Journal of the American Geriatrics Society</a>. Researchers reviewed health records for more than 3,700 app users and more than 114,000 people who did not use the app between 2018 and 2024.</p> <p>The team found that older adults who had previously been injured in a fall and signed up for the app had fewer serious fall-related injuries over the next year. People who weren’t regularly participating in an exercise class or program saw the biggest improvement in risk. People who were already exercising regularly did not see an added benefit. This was not surprising, according to Dr. Gozansky.</p> <p>“This research is really about removing barriers," said Dr. Gozansky. She is also a senior clinician investigator at the Institute for Health Research and vice president and chief quality officer for the Colorado Permanente Medical Group. "When we make it easier for people to engage in activities that support balance and strength, we can help them stay healthy, remain independent, and avoid injuries.”</p> <h2>Supporting healthy aging</h2> <p>The findings align with Kaiser Permanente's broader focus on prevention. When people can stay healthy and avoid injuries, treatment becomes easier and less expensive. Fall-related injuries lead to many emergency department visits and hospital stays among older adults. That makes prevention important to help people stay healthier and independent longer.</p> <p>The bottom line for people who are aging: It’s important to get moving. Whether it’s joining a formal class or downloading an app, finding some way to stay active can make a big difference.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div>]]> Senior health Health and wellness Health research Healthy aging https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/balance-exercise-apps-reduce-fall-related-injuries https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/weekly-grocery-deliveries-lower-blood-sugar <![CDATA[ A study of 460 Medicaid patients in Southern California shows improved outcomes for adults with Type 2 diabetes who received food support at home.]]> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 23:00:00 PST <![CDATA[ <div> <div></div> <div></div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div id="c07-text-d7c7ddeaf7"> <p>Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. They can lead to other health problems and increase health care costs. That’s why Wendolyn Gozansky, MD, an internal medicine doctor and geriatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Colorado, is always looking for new ways to reduce fall risk.</p> <p>And Dr. Gozansky and her research team may have found a handy new answer: mobile apps.</p> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div id="c07-text-265f9c5e79"> <p>More than 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year. Falls can lead to serious injuries, hospital stays, and loss of independence. They can also affect long-term health. Treating falls and related health issues often requires more intensive and costly care.</p> <p>Doctors have long known that exercise can help improve balance and strength. The challenge is that many older adults may not participate because of barriers such as transportation, scheduling, cost, mobility issues, or limited access to structured programs.</p> <h2>Making fall prevention more accessible</h2> <p>Dr. Gozansky and her team at the Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research wanted to see if there was a simple way to help older adults who face those barriers reduce their risk of falls.</p> <p>Researchers looked at how a balance-training app impacted the rates of fall-related injuries for Kaiser Permanente members in Colorado age 60 and older. The research was published in the <a href="https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jgs.70544">Journal of the American Geriatrics Society</a>. Researchers reviewed health records for more than 3,700 app users and more than 114,000 people who did not use the app between 2018 and 2024.</p> <p>The team found that older adults who had previously been injured in a fall and signed up for the app had fewer serious fall-related injuries over the next year. People who weren’t regularly participating in an exercise class or program saw the biggest improvement in risk. People who were already exercising regularly did not see an added benefit. This was not surprising, according to Dr. Gozansky.</p> <p>“This research is really about removing barriers," said Dr. Gozansky. She is also a senior clinician investigator at the Institute for Health Research and vice president and chief quality officer for the Colorado Permanente Medical Group. "When we make it easier for people to engage in activities that support balance and strength, we can help them stay healthy, remain independent, and avoid injuries.”</p> <h2>Supporting healthy aging</h2> <p>The findings align with Kaiser Permanente's broader focus on prevention. When people can stay healthy and avoid injuries, treatment becomes easier and less expensive. Fall-related injuries lead to many emergency department visits and hospital stays among older adults. That makes prevention important to help people stay healthier and independent longer.</p> <p>The bottom line for people who are aging: It’s important to get moving. Whether it’s joining a formal class or downloading an app, finding some way to stay active can make a big difference.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div>]]> Health research Care experience Nutrition Healthy eating Diabetes https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/weekly-grocery-deliveries-lower-blood-sugar https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/self-collection-kits-boost-cervical-cancer-screening <![CDATA[ A new approach to HPV testing reduces pelvic exams and helps more people get screened, a study finds.]]> Tue, 19 May 2026 23:00:00 PST <![CDATA[ <div> <div></div> <div></div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div id="c07-text-d7c7ddeaf7"> <p>Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. They can lead to other health problems and increase health care costs. That’s why Wendolyn Gozansky, MD, an internal medicine doctor and geriatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Colorado, is always looking for new ways to reduce fall risk.</p> <p>And Dr. Gozansky and her research team may have found a handy new answer: mobile apps.</p> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div id="c07-text-265f9c5e79"> <p>More than 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year. Falls can lead to serious injuries, hospital stays, and loss of independence. They can also affect long-term health. Treating falls and related health issues often requires more intensive and costly care.</p> <p>Doctors have long known that exercise can help improve balance and strength. The challenge is that many older adults may not participate because of barriers such as transportation, scheduling, cost, mobility issues, or limited access to structured programs.</p> <h2>Making fall prevention more accessible</h2> <p>Dr. Gozansky and her team at the Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research wanted to see if there was a simple way to help older adults who face those barriers reduce their risk of falls.</p> <p>Researchers looked at how a balance-training app impacted the rates of fall-related injuries for Kaiser Permanente members in Colorado age 60 and older. The research was published in the <a href="https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jgs.70544">Journal of the American Geriatrics Society</a>. Researchers reviewed health records for more than 3,700 app users and more than 114,000 people who did not use the app between 2018 and 2024.</p> <p>The team found that older adults who had previously been injured in a fall and signed up for the app had fewer serious fall-related injuries over the next year. People who weren’t regularly participating in an exercise class or program saw the biggest improvement in risk. People who were already exercising regularly did not see an added benefit. This was not surprising, according to Dr. Gozansky.</p> <p>“This research is really about removing barriers," said Dr. Gozansky. She is also a senior clinician investigator at the Institute for Health Research and vice president and chief quality officer for the Colorado Permanente Medical Group. "When we make it easier for people to engage in activities that support balance and strength, we can help them stay healthy, remain independent, and avoid injuries.”</p> <h2>Supporting healthy aging</h2> <p>The findings align with Kaiser Permanente's broader focus on prevention. When people can stay healthy and avoid injuries, treatment becomes easier and less expensive. Fall-related injuries lead to many emergency department visits and hospital stays among older adults. That makes prevention important to help people stay healthier and independent longer.</p> <p>The bottom line for people who are aging: It’s important to get moving. Whether it’s joining a formal class or downloading an app, finding some way to stay active can make a big difference.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div>]]> Health research Cancer Women's health https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/self-collection-kits-boost-cervical-cancer-screening https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/managing-blood-pressure-may-change-breast-cancer-outlook <![CDATA[ A large study finds lower death rates among women with advanced breast cancer who took more than one drug to treat their high blood pressure.]]> Tue, 10 Mar 2026 23:00:00 PST <![CDATA[ <div> <div></div> <div></div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div id="c07-text-d7c7ddeaf7"> <p>Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. They can lead to other health problems and increase health care costs. That’s why Wendolyn Gozansky, MD, an internal medicine doctor and geriatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Colorado, is always looking for new ways to reduce fall risk.</p> <p>And Dr. Gozansky and her research team may have found a handy new answer: mobile apps.</p> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div id="c07-text-265f9c5e79"> <p>More than 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year. Falls can lead to serious injuries, hospital stays, and loss of independence. They can also affect long-term health. Treating falls and related health issues often requires more intensive and costly care.</p> <p>Doctors have long known that exercise can help improve balance and strength. The challenge is that many older adults may not participate because of barriers such as transportation, scheduling, cost, mobility issues, or limited access to structured programs.</p> <h2>Making fall prevention more accessible</h2> <p>Dr. Gozansky and her team at the Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research wanted to see if there was a simple way to help older adults who face those barriers reduce their risk of falls.</p> <p>Researchers looked at how a balance-training app impacted the rates of fall-related injuries for Kaiser Permanente members in Colorado age 60 and older. The research was published in the <a href="https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jgs.70544">Journal of the American Geriatrics Society</a>. Researchers reviewed health records for more than 3,700 app users and more than 114,000 people who did not use the app between 2018 and 2024.</p> <p>The team found that older adults who had previously been injured in a fall and signed up for the app had fewer serious fall-related injuries over the next year. People who weren’t regularly participating in an exercise class or program saw the biggest improvement in risk. People who were already exercising regularly did not see an added benefit. This was not surprising, according to Dr. Gozansky.</p> <p>“This research is really about removing barriers," said Dr. Gozansky. She is also a senior clinician investigator at the Institute for Health Research and vice president and chief quality officer for the Colorado Permanente Medical Group. "When we make it easier for people to engage in activities that support balance and strength, we can help them stay healthy, remain independent, and avoid injuries.”</p> <h2>Supporting healthy aging</h2> <p>The findings align with Kaiser Permanente's broader focus on prevention. When people can stay healthy and avoid injuries, treatment becomes easier and less expensive. Fall-related injuries lead to many emergency department visits and hospital stays among older adults. That makes prevention important to help people stay healthier and independent longer.</p> <p>The bottom line for people who are aging: It’s important to get moving. Whether it’s joining a formal class or downloading an app, finding some way to stay active can make a big difference.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div>]]> Southern California Department of Research & Evaluation Our industry Health research Breast cancer High blood pressure https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/managing-blood-pressure-may-change-breast-cancer-outlook https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/on-site-blood-sugar-tests-uncontrolled-diabetes <![CDATA[ A new research study by Kaiser Permanente shows point-of-care A1C testing leads to better care, better outcomes, and fewer complications for patients with uncontrolled diabetes.]]> Fri, 12 Dec 2025 00:00:00 PST <![CDATA[ <div> <div></div> <div></div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div id="c07-text-d7c7ddeaf7"> <p>Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. They can lead to other health problems and increase health care costs. That’s why Wendolyn Gozansky, MD, an internal medicine doctor and geriatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Colorado, is always looking for new ways to reduce fall risk.</p> <p>And Dr. Gozansky and her research team may have found a handy new answer: mobile apps.</p> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div id="c07-text-265f9c5e79"> <p>More than 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year. Falls can lead to serious injuries, hospital stays, and loss of independence. They can also affect long-term health. Treating falls and related health issues often requires more intensive and costly care.</p> <p>Doctors have long known that exercise can help improve balance and strength. The challenge is that many older adults may not participate because of barriers such as transportation, scheduling, cost, mobility issues, or limited access to structured programs.</p> <h2>Making fall prevention more accessible</h2> <p>Dr. Gozansky and her team at the Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research wanted to see if there was a simple way to help older adults who face those barriers reduce their risk of falls.</p> <p>Researchers looked at how a balance-training app impacted the rates of fall-related injuries for Kaiser Permanente members in Colorado age 60 and older. The research was published in the <a href="https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jgs.70544">Journal of the American Geriatrics Society</a>. Researchers reviewed health records for more than 3,700 app users and more than 114,000 people who did not use the app between 2018 and 2024.</p> <p>The team found that older adults who had previously been injured in a fall and signed up for the app had fewer serious fall-related injuries over the next year. People who weren’t regularly participating in an exercise class or program saw the biggest improvement in risk. People who were already exercising regularly did not see an added benefit. This was not surprising, according to Dr. Gozansky.</p> <p>“This research is really about removing barriers," said Dr. Gozansky. She is also a senior clinician investigator at the Institute for Health Research and vice president and chief quality officer for the Colorado Permanente Medical Group. "When we make it easier for people to engage in activities that support balance and strength, we can help them stay healthy, remain independent, and avoid injuries.”</p> <h2>Supporting healthy aging</h2> <p>The findings align with Kaiser Permanente's broader focus on prevention. When people can stay healthy and avoid injuries, treatment becomes easier and less expensive. Fall-related injuries lead to many emergency department visits and hospital stays among older adults. That makes prevention important to help people stay healthier and independent longer.</p> <p>The bottom line for people who are aging: It’s important to get moving. Whether it’s joining a formal class or downloading an app, finding some way to stay active can make a big difference.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div>]]> Southern California Department of Research & Evaluation Health research Diabetes https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/on-site-blood-sugar-tests-uncontrolled-diabetes https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/cutting-edge-kaiser-permanente-research-hope <![CDATA[ Clinical trials like an endometriosis study could offer answers to underdiagnosed conditions.]]> Mon, 10 Nov 2025 00:00:00 PST <![CDATA[ <div> <div></div> <div></div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div id="c07-text-d7c7ddeaf7"> <p>Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. They can lead to other health problems and increase health care costs. That’s why Wendolyn Gozansky, MD, an internal medicine doctor and geriatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Colorado, is always looking for new ways to reduce fall risk.</p> <p>And Dr. Gozansky and her research team may have found a handy new answer: mobile apps.</p> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div id="c07-text-265f9c5e79"> <p>More than 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year. Falls can lead to serious injuries, hospital stays, and loss of independence. They can also affect long-term health. Treating falls and related health issues often requires more intensive and costly care.</p> <p>Doctors have long known that exercise can help improve balance and strength. The challenge is that many older adults may not participate because of barriers such as transportation, scheduling, cost, mobility issues, or limited access to structured programs.</p> <h2>Making fall prevention more accessible</h2> <p>Dr. Gozansky and her team at the Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research wanted to see if there was a simple way to help older adults who face those barriers reduce their risk of falls.</p> <p>Researchers looked at how a balance-training app impacted the rates of fall-related injuries for Kaiser Permanente members in Colorado age 60 and older. The research was published in the <a href="https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jgs.70544">Journal of the American Geriatrics Society</a>. Researchers reviewed health records for more than 3,700 app users and more than 114,000 people who did not use the app between 2018 and 2024.</p> <p>The team found that older adults who had previously been injured in a fall and signed up for the app had fewer serious fall-related injuries over the next year. People who weren’t regularly participating in an exercise class or program saw the biggest improvement in risk. People who were already exercising regularly did not see an added benefit. This was not surprising, according to Dr. Gozansky.</p> <p>“This research is really about removing barriers," said Dr. Gozansky. She is also a senior clinician investigator at the Institute for Health Research and vice president and chief quality officer for the Colorado Permanente Medical Group. "When we make it easier for people to engage in activities that support balance and strength, we can help them stay healthy, remain independent, and avoid injuries.”</p> <h2>Supporting healthy aging</h2> <p>The findings align with Kaiser Permanente's broader focus on prevention. When people can stay healthy and avoid injuries, treatment becomes easier and less expensive. Fall-related injuries lead to many emergency department visits and hospital stays among older adults. That makes prevention important to help people stay healthier and independent longer.</p> <p>The bottom line for people who are aging: It’s important to get moving. Whether it’s joining a formal class or downloading an app, finding some way to stay active can make a big difference.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div>]]> Health and wellness Health research Women's health https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/cutting-edge-kaiser-permanente-research-hope https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/immense-research-bank-drives-medical-breakthroughs <![CDATA[ The Kaiser Permanente Research Bank is one of the largest biobanks in the world. We use it to improve lives and transform health. ]]> Mon, 22 Sep 2025 23:00:00 PST <![CDATA[ <div> <div></div> <div></div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div id="c07-text-d7c7ddeaf7"> <p>Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. They can lead to other health problems and increase health care costs. That’s why Wendolyn Gozansky, MD, an internal medicine doctor and geriatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Colorado, is always looking for new ways to reduce fall risk.</p> <p>And Dr. Gozansky and her research team may have found a handy new answer: mobile apps.</p> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div id="c07-text-265f9c5e79"> <p>More than 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year. Falls can lead to serious injuries, hospital stays, and loss of independence. They can also affect long-term health. Treating falls and related health issues often requires more intensive and costly care.</p> <p>Doctors have long known that exercise can help improve balance and strength. The challenge is that many older adults may not participate because of barriers such as transportation, scheduling, cost, mobility issues, or limited access to structured programs.</p> <h2>Making fall prevention more accessible</h2> <p>Dr. Gozansky and her team at the Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research wanted to see if there was a simple way to help older adults who face those barriers reduce their risk of falls.</p> <p>Researchers looked at how a balance-training app impacted the rates of fall-related injuries for Kaiser Permanente members in Colorado age 60 and older. The research was published in the <a href="https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jgs.70544">Journal of the American Geriatrics Society</a>. Researchers reviewed health records for more than 3,700 app users and more than 114,000 people who did not use the app between 2018 and 2024.</p> <p>The team found that older adults who had previously been injured in a fall and signed up for the app had fewer serious fall-related injuries over the next year. People who weren’t regularly participating in an exercise class or program saw the biggest improvement in risk. People who were already exercising regularly did not see an added benefit. This was not surprising, according to Dr. Gozansky.</p> <p>“This research is really about removing barriers," said Dr. Gozansky. She is also a senior clinician investigator at the Institute for Health Research and vice president and chief quality officer for the Colorado Permanente Medical Group. "When we make it easier for people to engage in activities that support balance and strength, we can help them stay healthy, remain independent, and avoid injuries.”</p> <h2>Supporting healthy aging</h2> <p>The findings align with Kaiser Permanente's broader focus on prevention. When people can stay healthy and avoid injuries, treatment becomes easier and less expensive. Fall-related injuries lead to many emergency department visits and hospital stays among older adults. That makes prevention important to help people stay healthier and independent longer.</p> <p>The bottom line for people who are aging: It’s important to get moving. Whether it’s joining a formal class or downloading an app, finding some way to stay active can make a big difference.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div>]]> Our industry Health research Care experience Genetics Our organization https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/immense-research-bank-drives-medical-breakthroughs https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/internal-research-can-make-care-better-and-more-affordable <![CDATA[ The IMPROVE program turns researchers’ eyes toward making health care and coverage more effective and efficient.]]> Tue, 12 Aug 2025 23:00:00 PST <![CDATA[ <div> <div></div> <div></div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div id="c07-text-d7c7ddeaf7"> <p>Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. They can lead to other health problems and increase health care costs. That’s why Wendolyn Gozansky, MD, an internal medicine doctor and geriatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Colorado, is always looking for new ways to reduce fall risk.</p> <p>And Dr. Gozansky and her research team may have found a handy new answer: mobile apps.</p> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div id="c07-text-265f9c5e79"> <p>More than 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year. Falls can lead to serious injuries, hospital stays, and loss of independence. They can also affect long-term health. Treating falls and related health issues often requires more intensive and costly care.</p> <p>Doctors have long known that exercise can help improve balance and strength. The challenge is that many older adults may not participate because of barriers such as transportation, scheduling, cost, mobility issues, or limited access to structured programs.</p> <h2>Making fall prevention more accessible</h2> <p>Dr. Gozansky and her team at the Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research wanted to see if there was a simple way to help older adults who face those barriers reduce their risk of falls.</p> <p>Researchers looked at how a balance-training app impacted the rates of fall-related injuries for Kaiser Permanente members in Colorado age 60 and older. The research was published in the <a href="https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jgs.70544">Journal of the American Geriatrics Society</a>. Researchers reviewed health records for more than 3,700 app users and more than 114,000 people who did not use the app between 2018 and 2024.</p> <p>The team found that older adults who had previously been injured in a fall and signed up for the app had fewer serious fall-related injuries over the next year. People who weren’t regularly participating in an exercise class or program saw the biggest improvement in risk. People who were already exercising regularly did not see an added benefit. This was not surprising, according to Dr. Gozansky.</p> <p>“This research is really about removing barriers," said Dr. Gozansky. She is also a senior clinician investigator at the Institute for Health Research and vice president and chief quality officer for the Colorado Permanente Medical Group. "When we make it easier for people to engage in activities that support balance and strength, we can help them stay healthy, remain independent, and avoid injuries.”</p> <h2>Supporting healthy aging</h2> <p>The findings align with Kaiser Permanente's broader focus on prevention. When people can stay healthy and avoid injuries, treatment becomes easier and less expensive. Fall-related injuries lead to many emergency department visits and hospital stays among older adults. That makes prevention important to help people stay healthier and independent longer.</p> <p>The bottom line for people who are aging: It’s important to get moving. Whether it’s joining a formal class or downloading an app, finding some way to stay active can make a big difference.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div>]]> Health research Lung cancer https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/internal-research-can-make-care-better-and-more-affordable https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/aging-with-hiv-research-finds-increased-risk-of-dementia Fri, 22 Nov 2024 00:00:00 PST <![CDATA[ <div> <div></div> <div></div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div id="c07-text-d7c7ddeaf7"> <p>Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. They can lead to other health problems and increase health care costs. That’s why Wendolyn Gozansky, MD, an internal medicine doctor and geriatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Colorado, is always looking for new ways to reduce fall risk.</p> <p>And Dr. Gozansky and her research team may have found a handy new answer: mobile apps.</p> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div id="c07-text-265f9c5e79"> <p>More than 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year. Falls can lead to serious injuries, hospital stays, and loss of independence. They can also affect long-term health. Treating falls and related health issues often requires more intensive and costly care.</p> <p>Doctors have long known that exercise can help improve balance and strength. The challenge is that many older adults may not participate because of barriers such as transportation, scheduling, cost, mobility issues, or limited access to structured programs.</p> <h2>Making fall prevention more accessible</h2> <p>Dr. Gozansky and her team at the Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research wanted to see if there was a simple way to help older adults who face those barriers reduce their risk of falls.</p> <p>Researchers looked at how a balance-training app impacted the rates of fall-related injuries for Kaiser Permanente members in Colorado age 60 and older. The research was published in the <a href="https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jgs.70544">Journal of the American Geriatrics Society</a>. Researchers reviewed health records for more than 3,700 app users and more than 114,000 people who did not use the app between 2018 and 2024.</p> <p>The team found that older adults who had previously been injured in a fall and signed up for the app had fewer serious fall-related injuries over the next year. People who weren’t regularly participating in an exercise class or program saw the biggest improvement in risk. People who were already exercising regularly did not see an added benefit. This was not surprising, according to Dr. Gozansky.</p> <p>“This research is really about removing barriers," said Dr. Gozansky. She is also a senior clinician investigator at the Institute for Health Research and vice president and chief quality officer for the Colorado Permanente Medical Group. "When we make it easier for people to engage in activities that support balance and strength, we can help them stay healthy, remain independent, and avoid injuries.”</p> <h2>Supporting healthy aging</h2> <p>The findings align with Kaiser Permanente's broader focus on prevention. When people can stay healthy and avoid injuries, treatment becomes easier and less expensive. Fall-related injuries lead to many emergency department visits and hospital stays among older adults. That makes prevention important to help people stay healthier and independent longer.</p> <p>The bottom line for people who are aging: It’s important to get moving. Whether it’s joining a formal class or downloading an app, finding some way to stay active can make a big difference.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div>]]> HIV AIDS Health research Senior health https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/aging-with-hiv-research-finds-increased-risk-of-dementia https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/study-shows-new-way-to-prevent-suicides <![CDATA[ Primary care teams can make a big difference in their patients’ lives, our researchers find. ]]> Thu, 03 Oct 2024 23:00:00 PST <![CDATA[ <div> <div></div> <div></div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div id="c07-text-d7c7ddeaf7"> <p>Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. They can lead to other health problems and increase health care costs. That’s why Wendolyn Gozansky, MD, an internal medicine doctor and geriatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Colorado, is always looking for new ways to reduce fall risk.</p> <p>And Dr. Gozansky and her research team may have found a handy new answer: mobile apps.</p> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div id="c07-text-265f9c5e79"> <p>More than 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year. Falls can lead to serious injuries, hospital stays, and loss of independence. They can also affect long-term health. Treating falls and related health issues often requires more intensive and costly care.</p> <p>Doctors have long known that exercise can help improve balance and strength. The challenge is that many older adults may not participate because of barriers such as transportation, scheduling, cost, mobility issues, or limited access to structured programs.</p> <h2>Making fall prevention more accessible</h2> <p>Dr. Gozansky and her team at the Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research wanted to see if there was a simple way to help older adults who face those barriers reduce their risk of falls.</p> <p>Researchers looked at how a balance-training app impacted the rates of fall-related injuries for Kaiser Permanente members in Colorado age 60 and older. The research was published in the <a href="https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jgs.70544">Journal of the American Geriatrics Society</a>. Researchers reviewed health records for more than 3,700 app users and more than 114,000 people who did not use the app between 2018 and 2024.</p> <p>The team found that older adults who had previously been injured in a fall and signed up for the app had fewer serious fall-related injuries over the next year. People who weren’t regularly participating in an exercise class or program saw the biggest improvement in risk. People who were already exercising regularly did not see an added benefit. This was not surprising, according to Dr. Gozansky.</p> <p>“This research is really about removing barriers," said Dr. Gozansky. She is also a senior clinician investigator at the Institute for Health Research and vice president and chief quality officer for the Colorado Permanente Medical Group. "When we make it easier for people to engage in activities that support balance and strength, we can help them stay healthy, remain independent, and avoid injuries.”</p> <h2>Supporting healthy aging</h2> <p>The findings align with Kaiser Permanente's broader focus on prevention. When people can stay healthy and avoid injuries, treatment becomes easier and less expensive. Fall-related injuries lead to many emergency department visits and hospital stays among older adults. That makes prevention important to help people stay healthier and independent longer.</p> <p>The bottom line for people who are aging: It’s important to get moving. Whether it’s joining a formal class or downloading an app, finding some way to stay active can make a big difference.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div>]]> Health research Suicide Mental health https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/study-shows-new-way-to-prevent-suicides https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/cancer-rates-are-rising-in-younger-age-groups <![CDATA[ ‘Connect’ with research to help understand more about the increase of certain cancers in younger people.]]> Tue, 17 Sep 2024 23:00:00 PST <![CDATA[ <div> <div></div> <div></div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div id="c07-text-d7c7ddeaf7"> <p>Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. They can lead to other health problems and increase health care costs. That’s why Wendolyn Gozansky, MD, an internal medicine doctor and geriatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Colorado, is always looking for new ways to reduce fall risk.</p> <p>And Dr. Gozansky and her research team may have found a handy new answer: mobile apps.</p> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div id="c07-text-265f9c5e79"> <p>More than 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year. Falls can lead to serious injuries, hospital stays, and loss of independence. They can also affect long-term health. Treating falls and related health issues often requires more intensive and costly care.</p> <p>Doctors have long known that exercise can help improve balance and strength. The challenge is that many older adults may not participate because of barriers such as transportation, scheduling, cost, mobility issues, or limited access to structured programs.</p> <h2>Making fall prevention more accessible</h2> <p>Dr. Gozansky and her team at the Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research wanted to see if there was a simple way to help older adults who face those barriers reduce their risk of falls.</p> <p>Researchers looked at how a balance-training app impacted the rates of fall-related injuries for Kaiser Permanente members in Colorado age 60 and older. The research was published in the <a href="https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jgs.70544">Journal of the American Geriatrics Society</a>. Researchers reviewed health records for more than 3,700 app users and more than 114,000 people who did not use the app between 2018 and 2024.</p> <p>The team found that older adults who had previously been injured in a fall and signed up for the app had fewer serious fall-related injuries over the next year. People who weren’t regularly participating in an exercise class or program saw the biggest improvement in risk. People who were already exercising regularly did not see an added benefit. This was not surprising, according to Dr. Gozansky.</p> <p>“This research is really about removing barriers," said Dr. Gozansky. She is also a senior clinician investigator at the Institute for Health Research and vice president and chief quality officer for the Colorado Permanente Medical Group. "When we make it easier for people to engage in activities that support balance and strength, we can help them stay healthy, remain independent, and avoid injuries.”</p> <h2>Supporting healthy aging</h2> <p>The findings align with Kaiser Permanente's broader focus on prevention. When people can stay healthy and avoid injuries, treatment becomes easier and less expensive. Fall-related injuries lead to many emergency department visits and hospital stays among older adults. That makes prevention important to help people stay healthier and independent longer.</p> <p>The bottom line for people who are aging: It’s important to get moving. Whether it’s joining a formal class or downloading an app, finding some way to stay active can make a big difference.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div>]]> Health research Our organization Cancer News and announcements https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/cancer-rates-are-rising-in-younger-age-groups https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/more-trees-and-cleaner-air-improve-health-research-shows <![CDATA[ People who frequently walk, run, bike, and visit greener areas with less air pollution tend to have fewer health conditions and better mental health.]]> Sun, 18 Aug 2024 23:00:00 PST <![CDATA[ <div> <div></div> <div></div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div id="c07-text-d7c7ddeaf7"> <p>Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. They can lead to other health problems and increase health care costs. That’s why Wendolyn Gozansky, MD, an internal medicine doctor and geriatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Colorado, is always looking for new ways to reduce fall risk.</p> <p>And Dr. Gozansky and her research team may have found a handy new answer: mobile apps.</p> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div id="c07-text-265f9c5e79"> <p>More than 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year. Falls can lead to serious injuries, hospital stays, and loss of independence. They can also affect long-term health. Treating falls and related health issues often requires more intensive and costly care.</p> <p>Doctors have long known that exercise can help improve balance and strength. The challenge is that many older adults may not participate because of barriers such as transportation, scheduling, cost, mobility issues, or limited access to structured programs.</p> <h2>Making fall prevention more accessible</h2> <p>Dr. Gozansky and her team at the Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research wanted to see if there was a simple way to help older adults who face those barriers reduce their risk of falls.</p> <p>Researchers looked at how a balance-training app impacted the rates of fall-related injuries for Kaiser Permanente members in Colorado age 60 and older. The research was published in the <a href="https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jgs.70544">Journal of the American Geriatrics Society</a>. Researchers reviewed health records for more than 3,700 app users and more than 114,000 people who did not use the app between 2018 and 2024.</p> <p>The team found that older adults who had previously been injured in a fall and signed up for the app had fewer serious fall-related injuries over the next year. People who weren’t regularly participating in an exercise class or program saw the biggest improvement in risk. People who were already exercising regularly did not see an added benefit. This was not surprising, according to Dr. Gozansky.</p> <p>“This research is really about removing barriers," said Dr. Gozansky. She is also a senior clinician investigator at the Institute for Health Research and vice president and chief quality officer for the Colorado Permanente Medical Group. "When we make it easier for people to engage in activities that support balance and strength, we can help them stay healthy, remain independent, and avoid injuries.”</p> <h2>Supporting healthy aging</h2> <p>The findings align with Kaiser Permanente's broader focus on prevention. When people can stay healthy and avoid injuries, treatment becomes easier and less expensive. Fall-related injuries lead to many emergency department visits and hospital stays among older adults. That makes prevention important to help people stay healthier and independent longer.</p> <p>The bottom line for people who are aging: It’s important to get moving. Whether it’s joining a formal class or downloading an app, finding some way to stay active can make a big difference.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div>]]> Health research Environmental health Climate and health Community health https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/more-trees-and-cleaner-air-improve-health-research-shows https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/our-nations-health-depends-on-well-funded-research <![CDATA[ Advanced medical science improves patient outcomes. We urge lawmakers to continue providing full support for research funding and the agencies that lead research.]]> Sun, 21 Jul 2024 23:00:00 PST <![CDATA[ <div> <div></div> <div></div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div id="c07-text-d7c7ddeaf7"> <p>Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. They can lead to other health problems and increase health care costs. That’s why Wendolyn Gozansky, MD, an internal medicine doctor and geriatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Colorado, is always looking for new ways to reduce fall risk.</p> <p>And Dr. Gozansky and her research team may have found a handy new answer: mobile apps.</p> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div id="c07-text-265f9c5e79"> <p>More than 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year. Falls can lead to serious injuries, hospital stays, and loss of independence. They can also affect long-term health. Treating falls and related health issues often requires more intensive and costly care.</p> <p>Doctors have long known that exercise can help improve balance and strength. The challenge is that many older adults may not participate because of barriers such as transportation, scheduling, cost, mobility issues, or limited access to structured programs.</p> <h2>Making fall prevention more accessible</h2> <p>Dr. Gozansky and her team at the Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research wanted to see if there was a simple way to help older adults who face those barriers reduce their risk of falls.</p> <p>Researchers looked at how a balance-training app impacted the rates of fall-related injuries for Kaiser Permanente members in Colorado age 60 and older. The research was published in the <a href="https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jgs.70544">Journal of the American Geriatrics Society</a>. Researchers reviewed health records for more than 3,700 app users and more than 114,000 people who did not use the app between 2018 and 2024.</p> <p>The team found that older adults who had previously been injured in a fall and signed up for the app had fewer serious fall-related injuries over the next year. People who weren’t regularly participating in an exercise class or program saw the biggest improvement in risk. People who were already exercising regularly did not see an added benefit. This was not surprising, according to Dr. Gozansky.</p> <p>“This research is really about removing barriers," said Dr. Gozansky. She is also a senior clinician investigator at the Institute for Health Research and vice president and chief quality officer for the Colorado Permanente Medical Group. "When we make it easier for people to engage in activities that support balance and strength, we can help them stay healthy, remain independent, and avoid injuries.”</p> <h2>Supporting healthy aging</h2> <p>The findings align with Kaiser Permanente's broader focus on prevention. When people can stay healthy and avoid injuries, treatment becomes easier and less expensive. Fall-related injuries lead to many emergency department visits and hospital stays among older adults. That makes prevention important to help people stay healthier and independent longer.</p> <p>The bottom line for people who are aging: It’s important to get moving. Whether it’s joining a formal class or downloading an app, finding some way to stay active can make a big difference.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div>]]> Policy and advocacy Health research Anthony A. Barrueta Our perspective https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/our-nations-health-depends-on-well-funded-research https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/a-call-to-connect-to-uncover-the-causes-of-cancer <![CDATA[ Participate in a study to help uncover the causes of cancer and how to prevent it.]]> Sun, 02 Jun 2024 23:00:00 PST <![CDATA[ <div> <div></div> <div></div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div id="c07-text-d7c7ddeaf7"> <p>Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. They can lead to other health problems and increase health care costs. That’s why Wendolyn Gozansky, MD, an internal medicine doctor and geriatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Colorado, is always looking for new ways to reduce fall risk.</p> <p>And Dr. Gozansky and her research team may have found a handy new answer: mobile apps.</p> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div id="c07-text-265f9c5e79"> <p>More than 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year. Falls can lead to serious injuries, hospital stays, and loss of independence. They can also affect long-term health. Treating falls and related health issues often requires more intensive and costly care.</p> <p>Doctors have long known that exercise can help improve balance and strength. The challenge is that many older adults may not participate because of barriers such as transportation, scheduling, cost, mobility issues, or limited access to structured programs.</p> <h2>Making fall prevention more accessible</h2> <p>Dr. Gozansky and her team at the Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research wanted to see if there was a simple way to help older adults who face those barriers reduce their risk of falls.</p> <p>Researchers looked at how a balance-training app impacted the rates of fall-related injuries for Kaiser Permanente members in Colorado age 60 and older. The research was published in the <a href="https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jgs.70544">Journal of the American Geriatrics Society</a>. Researchers reviewed health records for more than 3,700 app users and more than 114,000 people who did not use the app between 2018 and 2024.</p> <p>The team found that older adults who had previously been injured in a fall and signed up for the app had fewer serious fall-related injuries over the next year. People who weren’t regularly participating in an exercise class or program saw the biggest improvement in risk. People who were already exercising regularly did not see an added benefit. This was not surprising, according to Dr. Gozansky.</p> <p>“This research is really about removing barriers," said Dr. Gozansky. She is also a senior clinician investigator at the Institute for Health Research and vice president and chief quality officer for the Colorado Permanente Medical Group. "When we make it easier for people to engage in activities that support balance and strength, we can help them stay healthy, remain independent, and avoid injuries.”</p> <h2>Supporting healthy aging</h2> <p>The findings align with Kaiser Permanente's broader focus on prevention. When people can stay healthy and avoid injuries, treatment becomes easier and less expensive. Fall-related injuries lead to many emergency department visits and hospital stays among older adults. That makes prevention important to help people stay healthier and independent longer.</p> <p>The bottom line for people who are aging: It’s important to get moving. Whether it’s joining a formal class or downloading an app, finding some way to stay active can make a big difference.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div>]]> Preventive care Health research Cancer Electronic health records Community health Innovation https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/a-call-to-connect-to-uncover-the-causes-of-cancer https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/joining-a-national-effort-to-test-news-ways-to-find-cancer <![CDATA[ As part of the Cancer Screening Research Network, our researchers will study new screening approaches, such as blood tests that look for many cancers at once. ]]> Wed, 06 Mar 2024 00:00:00 PST <![CDATA[ <div> <div></div> <div></div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div id="c07-text-d7c7ddeaf7"> <p>Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. They can lead to other health problems and increase health care costs. That’s why Wendolyn Gozansky, MD, an internal medicine doctor and geriatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Colorado, is always looking for new ways to reduce fall risk.</p> <p>And Dr. Gozansky and her research team may have found a handy new answer: mobile apps.</p> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div id="c07-text-265f9c5e79"> <p>More than 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year. Falls can lead to serious injuries, hospital stays, and loss of independence. They can also affect long-term health. Treating falls and related health issues often requires more intensive and costly care.</p> <p>Doctors have long known that exercise can help improve balance and strength. The challenge is that many older adults may not participate because of barriers such as transportation, scheduling, cost, mobility issues, or limited access to structured programs.</p> <h2>Making fall prevention more accessible</h2> <p>Dr. Gozansky and her team at the Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research wanted to see if there was a simple way to help older adults who face those barriers reduce their risk of falls.</p> <p>Researchers looked at how a balance-training app impacted the rates of fall-related injuries for Kaiser Permanente members in Colorado age 60 and older. The research was published in the <a href="https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jgs.70544">Journal of the American Geriatrics Society</a>. Researchers reviewed health records for more than 3,700 app users and more than 114,000 people who did not use the app between 2018 and 2024.</p> <p>The team found that older adults who had previously been injured in a fall and signed up for the app had fewer serious fall-related injuries over the next year. People who weren’t regularly participating in an exercise class or program saw the biggest improvement in risk. People who were already exercising regularly did not see an added benefit. This was not surprising, according to Dr. Gozansky.</p> <p>“This research is really about removing barriers," said Dr. Gozansky. She is also a senior clinician investigator at the Institute for Health Research and vice president and chief quality officer for the Colorado Permanente Medical Group. "When we make it easier for people to engage in activities that support balance and strength, we can help them stay healthy, remain independent, and avoid injuries.”</p> <h2>Supporting healthy aging</h2> <p>The findings align with Kaiser Permanente's broader focus on prevention. When people can stay healthy and avoid injuries, treatment becomes easier and less expensive. Fall-related injuries lead to many emergency department visits and hospital stays among older adults. That makes prevention important to help people stay healthier and independent longer.</p> <p>The bottom line for people who are aging: It’s important to get moving. Whether it’s joining a formal class or downloading an app, finding some way to stay active can make a big difference.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div></div> </div> </div> <div></div> </div>]]> Health research Cancer News and announcements https://about.kaiserpermanente.org/news/joining-a-national-effort-to-test-news-ways-to-find-cancer