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Control of simple arm movements in elderly humans
W G Darling1, J D Cooke, S H Brown
1Department of Physiology, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.
Neurobiology of Aging
|March 1, 1989
Summary
Elderly individuals exhibit less accurate motor control, with increased movement trajectory variability and abnormal muscle activation patterns. Practice can reduce variability but does not fully correct timing issues in elderly motor control.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Motor Control
- Gerontology
Background:
- Aging is associated with changes in motor control and movement execution.
- Understanding age-related differences in motor performance is crucial for developing interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate age-related differences in elbow flexion and extension movements.
- To examine the effects of practice on motor control in elderly subjects.
Main Methods:
- Comparison of movement trajectories and electromyography (EMG) activity between elderly and young adults.
- Visual step-tracking paradigm with varying movement amplitudes and speed instructions.
- Practice-based intervention to improve movement speed and accuracy in elderly participants.
Main Results:
- Movement trajectories became more variable with increased amplitude and speed, particularly in the elderly.
- Elderly subjects showed greater trajectory variability during acceleration and deceleration phases.
- Abnormal antagonist muscle co-contraction and inappropriate timing of EMG activity were observed in the elderly.
- Practice reduced trajectory variability in the elderly, but inappropriate antagonist timing persisted.
Conclusions:
- Movement trajectories are less accurately controlled in the elderly due to increased variability and abnormal muscle activation.
- Practice can improve some aspects of motor control in older adults, but underlying timing deficits may remain.
- Age-related changes in motor control impact movement accuracy and coordination.