Differences Between Gait on Stairs and Flat Surfaces in Relation to Fall Risk and Future Falls

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Gerontology
• Wearable Technology

Background:

• Falls are a significant health concern for older adults, often linked to gait impairments.
• Assessing gait in real-world conditions, including varied terrains like stairs, is crucial for understanding fall risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify gait differences in older adults on stairs versus flat ground using inertial sensors.
• To evaluate the predictive utility of gait parameters on different terrains for future falls.

Main Methods:

• Eighty-two community-dwelling older adults wore inertial sensors on the lower back and ankle.
• Gait parameters including step rate, variability, and movement vigor were derived from sensor data during semi-free-living walking on stairs and flat surfaces.
• Logistic regression was used to associate gait parameters with prospective falls over 12 months.

Main Results:

• Older adults exhibited slower walking on stairs compared to flat ground.
• Lower anteroposterior movement vigor at the lower back during stair descent was associated with longer reaction times.
• A faster step rate during stair descent was significantly associated with an increased risk of multiple falls within 12 months.

Conclusions:

• Gait characteristics during stair descent, particularly step rate, may offer valuable insights into fall risk in older adults.
• Sensor-based gait analysis on varied terrains holds promise for improved fall prediction and prevention strategies.