About this trial
This pilot randomized trial will evaluate whether a structured intradialytic eye-exercise program can be delivered safely and consistently during maintenance hemodialysis and whether it shows preliminary promise for improving physical function, balance, and fall-related concern. The study is needed because hemodialysis patients commonly experience impaired physical performance, reduced balance, and fear of falling, and these problems are associated with higher fall risk; at the same time, supervised exercise during dialysis is increasingly viewed as a practical way to reach this medically complex and often sedentary population. Eye-movement and gaze-stability training has also shown benefit for balance- and fall-related outcomes in older adults and stroke survivors, but its feasibility and potential value during dialysis sessions remain uncertain.
Eligibility criteria
Qualifiers
Adults ≥18 years receiving maintenance in-center hemodialysis
Clinically stable for brief seated intradialytic intervention
Able to understand and follow eye-exercise instructions
Able to provide informed consent
Disqualifiers
Unstable cardiac conditions (e.g., unstable angina, recent myocardial infarction, decompensated heart failure, uncontrolled arrhythmia)
Active infection or acute medical illness
Hemodynamic instability
Significant cognitive or communication impairment preventing instruction-following
Trial design
Treatments tested in this trial
- Intradialytic Eye Exercise