Effect of Different Cognitive Loads on Gait Stability in Younger and Older Adults

Abstract

Purpose: As many older people fall during dual tasks, we aimed to examine the effect of different cognitive loads on learning gait stability in younger and older adults.Methods: 10 younger (Mean±SD age: 25.91±3.42 years) and 10 older adults (Mean±SD: 66.65±4.28 years) were healthy volunteers without a history of falls. They were asked to do three tasks on a treadmill with cognitive load (none, simple, and complex). The Gait-stability Ratio (GSR) was calculated in each condition. Two-way repeated-measures ANOVA was used to examine the mean differences at a significance level of 0.05. Results:The findings showed that high cognitive load behavior during preferred speed walking in the younger and older adults decreases walking speed, and subjects learn to achieve greater stability. It was determined that by applying different cognitive loads (none, simple, and complex), the GSR value in older adults was higher than younger adults (P<0.01). Conclusion:The results showed that the older adults, through different walking strategies, especially the lowering phase, provide double support while walking so that they fall less with increasing steadiness. Also, walking exercises along with complex cognitive load can help older adults to better motor control.

Sex Differences in Falls: The Mediating Role of Gait Stability Ratio and Body Balance in Vulnerable Older Adults

“…The calculation of the GSR (steps/m) was performed by dividing the CAD performance by the GS performance [ 36 ]. Previous studies have shown GS, CAD, and GSR to be auxiliary and effective measures, capable of identifying the mechanisms used by older adults to adjust gait and maintain stable dynamic balance [ 44 , 45 ].…”

Associations of Gait Speed, Cadence, Gait Stability Ratio, and Body Balance with Falls in Older Adults

“…In turn, a reduction in stride length reflects a decrease in forwarding progression and a consequent increase in time spent supporting both lower limbs [ 43 , 44 ]. Previous studies have highlighted GS, CAD, and GSR as effective measures to assess gait adaptation strategies to maintain balance during challenges [ 45 , 46 ].…”