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Sit-to-stand-and-walk from 120% Knee Height: A Novel Approach to Assess Dynamic Postural Control Independent of Lead-limb
Published on: August 30, 2016
Step adjustments among young and elderly when walking toward a raised surface.
1Center for Sensory-Motor Interaction (SMI), Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajersvej 7 D, 9220, Aalborg, Denmark. ul@hst.aau.dk
Aging Clinical and Experimental Research
|June 7, 2013
Summary
Elderly individuals adopt more cautious gait adjustments when approaching obstacles, slowing down and shortening steps. This contrasts with younger adults who increase step velocity and length, potentially impacting fall risk in older populations.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Biomechanics
- Gait Analysis
Background:
- Falls in the elderly are frequently linked to uneven terrain ambulation.
- Negotiating obstacles demands both reactive and anticipatory postural strategies, which can decline with age.
- Anticipatory strategies are crucial for daily activities like street crossing and curb negotiation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate differences in step adjustment strategies between elderly and young adults when approaching a raised surface.
- To analyze gait modifications preceding obstacle negotiation in different age groups.
Main Methods:
- Eleven community-dwelling elderly adults and 14 young adults participated.
- An electronic gait mat was used in a laboratory setting to examine gait patterns.
- Gait characteristics leading up to the negotiation of a raised surface were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Both age groups modified their gait patterns to adjust the final step before the obstacle.
- Younger adults increased step velocity and length, while elderly adults decreased velocity and shortened step length.
- Elderly participants initiated major step length adjustments one step later than young participants, who began adjustments four steps prior.
Conclusions:
- Elderly individuals employ more cautious anticipatory strategies for obstacle negotiation.
- These cautious strategies provide more time for postural adjustments but can reduce forward momentum, potentially hindering negotiation of raised surfaces.
- Age-related differences in anticipatory gait strategies may influence fall risk during obstacle negotiation.
