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Melatonin Affects Postural Control in Community-Dwelling Older Adults While Dual Tasking: A Randomized Observation
Journal of Aging and Physical Activity
|May 30, 2018
Summary
A single 3-mg dose of melatonin was found to impair postural control in older adults, increasing sway during standing tasks. However, this melatonin dose did not affect cognitive performance on the Stroop test.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Aging is associated with declines in postural control and cognitive function.
- Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and has potential effects on other physiological systems.
- Understanding the impact of melatonin on older adults is crucial for safety and well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of a single 3-mg dose of melatonin on postural control and cognitive performance in community-dwelling older adults.
- To assess changes in balance and cognitive function under single and dual-task conditions after melatonin administration.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-four older adults participated in the study.
- Postural control was assessed using single-leg and double-leg standing tasks, with and without a concurrent Stroop test (cognitive task).
- Measurements were taken immediately before and 1 hour after a 3-mg melatonin dose.
Main Results:
- Melatonin significantly increased postural sway area during the dual-task condition (stepping down with Stroop test) (p=0.04).
- Postural sway also significantly increased on the double-leg standing task after melatonin intake (p=0.018).
- Cognitive performance on the Stroop test was not significantly affected by the melatonin dose.
Conclusions:
- A single 3-mg dose of melatonin can impair postural control in older adults.
- Melatonin does not appear to negatively impact cognitive performance in this population under the tested conditions.
- These findings suggest caution when considering melatonin use in older adults, particularly concerning activities requiring stable balance.
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