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Mixed Modal Training to Help Older Adults Maintain Postural Balance
Amanda Marchini1, Wellington Pedroso1, Osmar Pinto Neto2
1Arena235 Research Lab, Consultoria Esportiva, São Jose dos Campos, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Journal of Chiropractic Medicine
|September 3, 2020
Summary
Mixed modality training (MMT) significantly improves balance in older adults, bringing their postural control to levels comparable to younger adults. This suggests MMT enhances strength and proprioception, crucial for preventing age-related balance decline.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Exercise Physiology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Older adults exhibit diminished balance compared to younger individuals.
- Exercise interventions show potential in mitigating age-related balance deficits.
- The optimal exercise type for enhancing balance in seniors is not fully established.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of regular mixed modality training (MMT) in improving postural balance in older adults.
- To compare the balance of older adults undergoing MMT with that of younger adults and untrained older adults.
Main Methods:
- Participants included trained young adults, and older adults divided into trained (MMT) and untrained groups.
- Postural balance was assessed using an electronic baropodometer to measure postural sway with eyes open and closed.
Main Results:
- Trained older adults demonstrated postural sway performance similar to trained young adults.
- Older adults who engaged in MMT showed a reduced center of pressure total displacement area with eyes closed compared to untrained older adults.
Conclusions:
- Regular MMT can restore postural control in older adults to levels seen in younger populations.
- MMT's benefits for older adults' balance may stem from enhanced muscle strength and proprioception.
