Ramadan Fasting Effects on Postural Control in the Elderly: A Comparison Between Fallers and Non-fallers

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Sports Science
• Physiology

Background:

• Postural control is crucial for elderly mobility and fall prevention.
• Ramadan fasting involves significant dietary and lifestyle changes that may affect physiological functions.
• Previous research has not fully elucidated the specific effects of Ramadan fasting on postural control in elderly individuals, particularly differentiating between fallers and non-fallers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of Ramadan fasting on postural control in elderly fallers and non-fallers.
• To assess changes in center of pressure (CoP) parameters and simple reaction time (SRT) during and after Ramadan fasting.
• To investigate potential differences in the amplitude of postural sway alterations between fallers and non-fallers.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-four healthy elderly males (fallers and non-fallers) participated in the study.
• Postural control and SRT were measured at four time points: before Ramadan, during the second and fourth weeks of Ramadan, and three weeks after Ramadan.
• Center of pressure (CoP) parameters (CoP_X and CoP_Y) were assessed on firm and foam surfaces using a force platform.

Main Results:

• Ramadan fasting significantly increased CoP_X and CoP_Y in both fallers and non-fallers compared to baseline.
• Postural sway parameters (CoP_X, CoP_Y) increased significantly during Ramadan fasting, especially on foam surfaces.
• The amplitude of postural sway increase (ΔCoP_X %, ΔCoP_Y %) was significantly greater in fallers than non-fallers during the second week of Ramadan.
• Simple reaction time (SRT) increased significantly in both groups during Ramadan fasting.

Conclusions:

• Ramadan fasting similarly affects postural control in elderly fallers and non-fallers, leading to increased sway.
• The magnitude of postural control alteration appears more pronounced in elderly fallers compared to non-fallers.
• Adaptation may begin by the fourth week of Ramadan, but three weeks post-fasting is insufficient for full recovery of postural control, especially under challenging sensory conditions.