Information processing for motor performance in aging adults

Abstract

Movement control systems are altered by the aging process. A growing body of research exists that explains the known changes that occur with aging, and many of those changes are related to central nervous system (CNS) effects. This article reviews motor control and learning issues related to CNS information-processing effects of aging and the effects of practice and physical conditioning on reactive capacity. The extensive variability in motor-performance abilities of older people is addressed, and the significance of individual differences is emphasized.