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Ageing and midline crossing inhibition.
Scott J Pedersen1, Paul R Surburg, W F Brechue
1Department of Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces 88003, USA. pedersen@nmsu.edu
Laterality
|July 16, 2005
Summary
Older adults may regain midline crossing inhibition (MCI) in lower extremity movements. Practice helps improve this motor control, even in advanced age, with no impact on movement time.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Motor Control
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Age-related decline in motor function is common.
- Midline crossing inhibition (MCI) is a motor control phenomenon potentially affected by aging.
- Understanding the developmental trajectory of MCI in older adults is crucial for assessing functional changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate age-related changes in lower extremity lateral movements.
- To identify the specific age range for the reappearance of midline crossing inhibition (MCI).
- To explore the impact of practice on MCI in aging adults.
Main Methods:
- Ten individuals (5 men, 5 women) per decade from 40 to 89 years old participated.
- Participants performed seated trials on a lower extremity apparatus measuring reaction time and movement time.
- Midline crossing inhibition (MCI) was defined as slower contralateral vs. ipsilateral reaction times.
Main Results:
- The two eldest age groups (70s and 80s) showed MCI, but only on the initial testing day.
- Practice appeared to enhance cross-lateral integration in all aging adults, including the oldest.
- No significant differences in movement times were observed across the different age groups.
Conclusions:
- Midline crossing inhibition (MCI) may reappear in specific older age groups.
- Motor practice can facilitate cross-lateral integration in normal aging adults, mitigating MCI.
- Movement time is not significantly affected by age in this context, suggesting preserved motor execution speed.