Biomarkers

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Neuroscience
• Gerontology

Background:

• Functional activities, particularly gait, are increasingly recognized as potential biomarkers for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD).
• Current research often emphasizes spatiotemporal gait parameters, overlooking the underlying biomechanical factors.
• Understanding joint biomechanics during functional tasks is crucial for developing targeted interventions for individuals with ADRD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review of existing literature on joint biomechanics during functional activities in older adults diagnosed with ADRD.
• To identify the extent and nature of biomechanical assessments reported in studies involving this population.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive scoping review was performed following PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
• Searches were conducted across major online databases (Ovid, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science) from inception to December 2024.
• Studies quantifying joint biomechanics in adults aged 65+ with ADRD were included, with screening and data charting performed by two independent reviewers.

Main Results:

• The review identified 18 eligible studies out of 1,069 initial results, with the majority published after 2016.
• Most studies employed a cross-sectional design, focusing on walking (13 studies) as the primary functional activity.
• Lower extremity joint biomechanics (ankle, knee, hip) were assessed using motion capture and inertial sensors, quantifying angles and moments.

Conclusions:

• Recent research predominantly examines lower extremity biomechanics during walking in older adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), a form of ADRD.
• The findings suggest a need for systematic evaluation of walking biomechanics in this population.
• Further systematic reviews could enhance understanding of gait as an ADRD biomarker and inform intervention strategies.