Biomechanical Walking Pattern Changes in the Fit and Healthy Elderly

Abstract

A descriptive study of the biomechanical variables of the walking patterns of the fit and healthy elderly compared with those of young adults revealed several significant differences. The walking patterns of 15 elderly subjects, selected for their active life style and screened for any gait- or balance-related pathological conditions, were analyzed. Kinematic and kinetic data for a minimum of 10 repeat walking trials were collected using a video digitizing system and a force platform. Basic kinematic analyses and an inverse dynamics model yielded data based on the following variables: temporal and cadence measures, heal and toe trajectories, joint kinematics, joint moments of force, and joint mechanical power generation and absorption. Significant differences between these elderly subjects and a database of young adults revealed the following: the same cadence but a shorter step length, an increased double-support stance period, decreased push-off power, a more flat-footed landing, and a reduction in their "index of dynamic balance." All of these differences, except reduction in index of dynamic balance, indicate adaptation by the elderly toward a safer, more stable gait pattern. The reduction in index of dynamic balance suggests deterioration in the efficiency of the balance control system during gait. Because of these significant differences attributable to age alone, it is apparent that a separate gait database is needed in order to pinpoint falling disorders of the elderly.

Obstacle negotiation kinematics: age-dependent effects of postural threat

“…On die contrary, the heightened arousal demonstrated by OA could be harmful to their safety. This arousal may increase cocontraction and joint stiffness, which may cause difficulty during trip recover}' (Winter et al, 1990), specifically under time constrained conditions. As well, increased arousal may demand the allocation of more attention to postural control making individuals unable to detect sudden environmental risks.…”

“…These conservative movements may cause, co-contraction, leading to joint stiffness and difficulty 7 during trip recovery (Winter, et al, 1990). However, findings from previous work (Adkin et al, 2002;Carpenter et al, 2001;Adkin et al, 2000;Carpenter et al, 1999) have revealed that YA adopt a stiffening strategy under conditions of postural threat which may be beneficial to postural control.…”

“…Slower walking velocities among OA due to shortened stride lengths and decreased stride velocity have also been documented by Judge and colleagues (1996). In addition, it is also reported that OA spend more time in the DLS phase of gait than YA (Judge et al, 1996;Winter, 1991;Murray, Kory, & Clarkson, 1969;Winter, Pada, Frank, & Walt, 1990;Winter et al, 1990). The DLS phase is thought to be the more stable of die two gait phases since there are two feet in contact with the walking surface.…”

Age-related slip avoidance strategy while walking over a known slippery floor surface

“…Gait adaptation frequently occurs as a result of aging. Elderly people often walk with shorter step length with a wider base of support, and slower transitional acceleration of the whole body center-of-mass (COM) [13,24]. Additionally, higher heel contact velocities have been reported for the frail elderly population at the time of the heel contact phase of the gait cycle [13].…”

“…Elderly people often walk with shorter step length with a wider base of support, and slower transitional acceleration of the whole body center-of-mass (COM) [13,24]. Additionally, higher heel contact velocities have been reported for the frail elderly population at the time of the heel contact phase of the gait cycle [13]. These gait adaptations further increase risk of slipping, for example, higher heel contact velocity can increase horizontal ground reaction force in relation to vertical ground reaction force and as a result, friction demand can increase [25].…”