Sensorimotor and Cognitive Predictors of Impaired Gait Adaptability in Older People

Caetano MJD, Menant JC, Schöne D, Pelicioni PHS, Sturnieks DL, Lord SR (2017)


Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2017

Journal

Book Volume: 72

Pages Range: 1257-1263

Journal Issue: 9

DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glw171

Abstract

Background: The ability to adapt gait when negotiating unexpected hazards is crucial to maintain stability and avoid falling. This study investigated whether impaired gait adaptability in a task including obstacle and stepping targets is associated with cognitive and sensorimotor capacities in older adults. Methods: Fifty healthy older adults (74±7 years) were instructed to either (a) avoid an obstacle at usual step distance or (b) step onto a target at either a short or long step distance projected on a walkway two heel strikes ahead and then continue walking. Participants also completed cognitive and sensorimotor function assessments. Results: Stroop test and reaction time performance significantly discriminated between participants who did and did not make stepping errors, and poorer Trail-Making test performance predicted shorter penultimate step length in the obstacle avoidance condition. Slower reaction time predicted poorer stepping accuracy; increased postural sway, weaker quadriceps strength, and poorer Stroop and Trail-Making test performances predicted increased number of steps taken to approach the target/obstacle and shorter step length; and increased postural sway and higher concern about falling predicted slower step velocity. Conclusions: Superior executive function, fast processing speed, and good muscle strength and balance were all associated with successful gait adaptability. Processing speed appears particularly important for precise foot placements; cognitive capacity for step length adjustments; and early and/or additional cognitive processing involving the inhibition of a stepping pattern for obstacle avoidance. This information may facilitate fall risk assessments and fall prevention strategies.

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APA:

Caetano, M.J.D., Menant, J.C., Schöne, D., Pelicioni, P.H.S., Sturnieks, D.L., & Lord, S.R. (2017). Sensorimotor and Cognitive Predictors of Impaired Gait Adaptability in Older People. Journals of Gerontology Series A-Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences, 72(9), 1257-1263. https://dx.doi.org/10.1093/gerona/glw171

MLA:

Caetano, Maria Joana D., et al. "Sensorimotor and Cognitive Predictors of Impaired Gait Adaptability in Older People." Journals of Gerontology Series A-Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences 72.9 (2017): 1257-1263.

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