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Age related changes in balance performance during self-selected and narrow stance testing
Bryan L Riemann1, Monica Lininger2, Mary K Kirkland3
1Biodynamics and Human Performance Center, Armstrong State University, 11935 Abercorn Street, Savannah, GA 31419, United States.
Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics
|December 1, 2017
Summary
This study developed a sway velocity index (SVI) to assess age-related balance changes in older adults. The SVI effectively identified significant predictors of balance, aiding in fall risk screening.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Biomechanics
- Kinesiology
Background:
- Balance testing for fall risk has high variability in methods.
- Previous research highlights age-related balance changes and faller differences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine age-related balance changes using medial-lateral center of pressure (CP) velocity.
- To assess these changes in community-dwelling adults aged 60+ years.
Main Methods:
- Two hundred thirty adults (≥60 years) performed balance tests in various stances and visual conditions.
- A sway velocity index (SVI) was calculated using CP velocity, natural logarithm transformation, and body height.
- Multiple linear regression analyzed associations between age, vision, stance, sex, and SVI.
Main Results:
- Age, visual condition, stance, and sex were significant predictors of SVI.
- These factors collectively explained 25% of the variance in SVI.
Conclusions:
- The balance testing protocol and SVI are sensitive to age-related balance declines.
- This can inform the development of a practical instrumented test for identifying balance impairments in older adults.
