Balance abilities of different-aged workers in physically demanding jobs

The postural and functional balance abilities of workers in physically demanding jobs were assessed in relation to age and occupation. Postural balance was tested with a force platform, and functional balance was measured during walking on a wooden plank. The subjects, 23-61 years of age, were fire fighters (men, n = 69), construction workers (men, n = 52), nursing staff (women, n = 51), and home care workers (women, n = 66). In the older (> or = 50 years) groups the time used for the functional balance test was 3-5 s longer and the velocity moment of the postural balance was 16-30 mm2/s higher than in the groups aged < or = 39 years. Construction workers performed better than fire fighters, and both groups had better functional balance than home care workers and nursing staff. The balance demands of work and deterioration with age should be taken into account when work ability is promoted, especially among older workers in physically demanding jobs.