[Gait changes in elderly people]

Age-associated changes in gait produce a decrease in walking velocity, predominantly caused by a reduction in the length of the step and to a lesser degree in cadence. The length of the step becomes shorter because of impaired balance, diminished muscle strength and muscle contractures that decrease the joint range of motion. Impairment of the quality of their gait is a major risk factor for falls in the elderly with subsequent minor or major injuries. Age-related changes in gait of elderly people must be taken into account when planning orthopedic surgical procedures and applying orthopedic devices such as orthoses and lower extremity prostheses. Exercise programs to maintain and improve muscle strength, equilibrium reactions as well as neuromotor coordination have proved effective in postponing and correcting age-related gait instability and in increasing walking velocity as well as mobility in daily life.