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Age differences in timed accurate stepping with increasing cognitive and visual demand: a walking trail making test
Neil B Alexander1, James A Ashton-Miller, Bruno Giordani
1Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.
Summary
Older adults take longer to step accurately in challenging conditions. Reduced light and increased cognitive demand significantly impair stepping accuracy, especially in older individuals.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Human Factors Engineering
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Falls are predicted by impaired vision, cognition, and attention.
- Accurate stepping is crucial for navigating hazardous terrain.
- This study investigates age-related differences in stepping accuracy under varying demands.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare healthy young and older adults' stepping accuracy.
- To assess the impact of increasing cognitive and visual demand on stepping time.
- To identify factors contributing to falls in older adults.
Main Methods:
- Healthy young (n=42, mean age 21) and older (n=37, mean age 70) adults participated.
- Participants performed the Walking Trail Making Test (W-TMT A and B) on an instrumented walkway.
- Tasks involved increasing cognitive load (Trails A vs. B) and reduced lighting (Low vs. Normal).
Main Results:
- Stepping time increased with age, reduced light, and higher cognitive demand.
- Older adults showed disproportionately longer times in low light and high cognitive demand.
- Age-related differences in cognitive-motor task performance were significant.
Conclusions:
- Stepping accuracy decreases with reduced lighting and increased cognitive demand.
- Older adults are disproportionately affected by these conditions.
- Findings highlight risks for falls in older adults navigating complex environments.