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Aging effects of haptic input on postural control under a dual-task paradigm.
João Pedro Pinho1, Ana Paula Silva Azevedo2, Júlio Cerca Serrão2
1Biomechanics Laboratory, School of Physical Education and Sport, University of São Paulo, Brazil; Biomechatronics Laboratory, Department of Mechatronics and Mechanical Systems, Escola Politécnica of the University of São Paulo, Brazil.
Experimental Gerontology
|August 20, 2022
Summary
A light touch sensory aid significantly improved balance in older adults during dual-task situations, mitigating age-related sensory impairments and enhancing postural control.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Biomechanics
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Aging impairs sensory systems (vision, vestibular, proprioception) crucial for postural control.
- Dual-tasking (cognitive + motor) exacerbates balance deficits in older adults due to sensory impairments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of a haptic sensory aid on dual-task balance performance in young and older women.
- To understand age-related differences in postural responses to sensory input during dual tasks.
Main Methods:
- Fifty healthy women (young and older adults) participated.
- Participants performed balance tasks including the Stroop test, with and without a light touch (haptic input).
- Body sway and cognitive performance (errors, reaction time) were measured.
Main Results:
- Older women exhibited significantly more errors and slower reaction times on the Stroop test compared to younger women.
- A light touch intervention consistently reduced body sway in both age groups across conditions.
- Haptic input mitigated the negative effects of dual-tasking on postural control.
Conclusions:
- Haptic sensory input can effectively enhance postural control, particularly in older adults.
- Light touch can serve as a beneficial sensory aid to improve balance during challenging dual-task conditions.
- This finding has implications for fall prevention strategies in aging populations.
