Balance performance, force production, and activity levels in noninstitutionalized men 60 to 90 years of age

The purpose of this study was to collect and analyze balance and muscle performance data obtained from 54 men aged 60 to 90 years. Balance was tested using the sharpened Romberg test (SR) and the one-legged stance test (OLST) on each foot with eyes open and eyes closed. A strain-gauge-based quantitative muscle tester (QMT) was used to measure force production. All torque values were normalized as a percentage of body weight. A self-report of activity level also was recorded. The results indicated that OLST scores and normalized torques of the hip flexors, extensors, and abductors had a positive correlation and that SR scores and normalized torques of the hip extensors and right hip abductors had a positive correlation. Subjects who considered themselves to be very active had a significantly higher SR eyes-closed balance time as compared with those who rated themselves as less active. Subjects who considered themselves to be very active also had significantly higher normalized torque values for most muscle groups tested. Negative relationships were shown between age and balance time and between age and force production.