Aging

Abstract

This chapter reviews studies that have examined age-related anatomic and functional changes in sensory, neuromuscular, and cognitive systems that impair the control of balance and gait. Specifically, we examine age-related changes in peripheral systems: lower-limb sensation, visual functions such as contrast sensitivity and depth perception, vestibular sense, strength, and power in the lower-limb muscle groups, as well as central factors including processing speed and executive functioning. Significant impairments in any one of the above systems can predispose older people to falls, with the risk of falling increasing substantially with the number of impairments present. There is increasing evidence that interventions aimed at addressing specific sensory and neuromuscular impairments can improve balance control and reduce fall risk. In particular, task-specific exercise can improve muscle strength, balance, gait and mobility and prevent falls in older people.

Keywords: aging; balance; executive functioning; gait; muscle strength; reaction time; sensation; vision.