Walking smoothness is associated with self-reported function after accounting for gait speed.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Biomechanics
• Motor Control

Background:

• Gait speed is a known indicator of functional status in older adults.
• However, gait speed may not capture all aspects of physical function, such as the quality of movement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between walking smoothness and physical function in older adults.
• To determine if walking smoothness provides unique information about physical function beyond gait speed.

Main Methods:

• Thirty older adults (mean age 77.7 years) participated.
• Gait speed was measured using an instrumented walkway.
• Walking smoothness was quantified using harmonic ratios from trunk accelerations (anteroposterior, vertical, mediolateral).
• Self-reported physical function was assessed using the Late-Life Function and Disability Instrument.

Main Results:

• Anteroposterior (forward) walking smoothness positively correlated with all components of physical function.
• Mediolateral (sideways) walking smoothness showed negative associations with physical function.
• Anteroposterior smoothness remained significantly associated with overall and lower extremity function, even after accounting for gait speed.

Conclusions:

• Walking smoothness, particularly anteroposterior smoothness, reflects important aspects of motor control for physical function.
• These findings suggest that walking smoothness provides valuable information about physical function that is not captured by gait speed alone.