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Updated: Jun 24, 2026
12:18
An Instrumented Pull Test to Characterize Postural Responses
Published on: April 6, 2019
Olfactory stimuli and enhanced postural stability in older adults
Shannon Freeman1, Satoru Ebihara, Takae Ebihara
1Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Seiryo-machi 4-1, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan.
Gait & Posture
|March 17, 2009
Summary
Olfactory stimulation with lavender or black pepper oil improved postural control in older adults with eyes closed. This suggests scents can enhance balance by slowing sway velocity.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Health
- Neuroscience
- Sensory Science
Background:
- Postural instability is a significant concern in older adults, impacting mobility and fall risk.
- Effective interventions for geriatric postural control are crucial for maintaining independence and quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of olfactory stimuli on postural control in elderly individuals.
- To determine if scents like lavender and black pepper can enhance balance in older adults.
Main Methods:
- 17 older adults (mean age 78 years) participated.
- Postural control was measured using center of pressure (CoP) trajectories on a force plate.
- Olfactory stimuli included lavender oil, black pepper oil, and a sham control (distilled water), with eyes open and closed conditions.
Main Results:
- Olfactory stimulation significantly decreased mediolateral (ML) and antero-posterior (AP) RMS velocities and trajectory lengths with eyes closed.
- Minimal effects on postural control were observed when eyes were open.
- RMS displacements showed small, mostly insignificant decreases.
Conclusions:
- Olfactory stimulation may serve as a viable method to improve postural stability in older adults.
- The mechanism likely involves a reduction in the velocity of postural adjustments during sway, particularly when visual input is limited.
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