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Effects of aging on adult hand function
1Department of Occupational Therapy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond 23298-0008.
Summary
Normal aging affects hand strength and task performance, with noticeable declines after age 65. Older adults may alter hand use due to pinch weakness, impacting function.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Biomechanics
- Occupational Therapy
Background:
- Normal aging's impact on adult hand function and performance is not fully understood.
- Understanding age-related changes in hand function is crucial for maintaining independence and quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between prehension pattern, hand strength, and functional task performance in aging adults.
- To identify age-related differences in hand function and performance.
Main Methods:
- Empirical study involving 40 adults (24-87 years) divided into age/gender groups.
- Assessed prehension patterns, grip strength, pinch strength, and performance time during simulated daily tasks (pouring milk, handling money).
- Utilized a functional classification system for prehension patterns and standardized measurement tools (dynamometer, pinch gauge).
Main Results:
- Prehension pattern selection did not significantly differ with age.
- Statistically significant age-related differences were found in prehension pattern frequency, hand strength, and performance time.
- Older adults, particularly those with lateral pinch weakness, exhibited increased prehension pattern frequency and performance time.
- Hand function remained stable until approximately 65 years, then gradually declined, with most apparent differences after 75 years.
Conclusions:
- Aging influences hand function, particularly after age 65, affecting strength and task completion speed.
- Lateral pinch weakness in older adults can lead to compensatory strategies, increasing task time.
- Age-related decline in hand function is gradual but becomes more pronounced in advanced age.