Changes in throwing by older adults: a longitudinal investigation

This investigation examined change in a motor pattern requiring multisegmented coordination in older adults. The overarm throw was observed longitudinally in 8 elderly individuals over 7 years. Data were evaluated using Roberton's (Roberton & Halverson, 1984) movement components. Contrasting the assumed pattern of aging, only small declines in movement form were observed. Individual cases revealed additional, noncategorizable declines within component categories, including slower movement speed and decreased range of motion. Increased trial-to-trial variability also was associated with change. These changes suggested that elderly participants coordinated their movements in a manner similar to younger participants but controlled them differently. The small changes observed in this investigation suggest that performance, at least for some skills, is more stable than traditionally assumed.