Impact of Exercise on Seniors' Motor Control Response to External Dynamics

Abstract

Research on postural stability, motor control, and fall occurrence in seniors is common, but few studies address the influence of exercise and external dynamics on elderly balance. Using pre- and post-training tests, the effects of a Fitball exercise program on performance in eight subjects was documented. The exercise program focused on improving dynamic balance and postural stability of seniors. To evaluate progress-related changes, pre- and post-tests in a dynamic environment were applied. Center of gravity (COG) excursion, catch success rate, and balance success rate were quantified, and synchronized data collection of 3D motion capture (VICON v8i) and ground reaction force (2 KISTLER platforms) was analyzed. During pre- and post-tests, participants stood in a walklike stance and were asked to catch a weighted ball, which dropped unexpectedly. Results showed no significant changes in balance success rate. Significant improvements were found, however, in both COG control and catch success rate following training (p<0.05).

Effects of Water-Based Training on Static and Dynamic Balance of Older Women

“…Participants performed three sets of 40 sec with a rest interval of 20 sec of these exercises at a moderate speed, at an RPE of 12 during the first 4 weeks. Exercise intensity was increased by augmenting movement speed and by including water-resistive devices during weeks 5-8 (RPE or [12][13][14]. Finally, during the last 4 weeks, subjects were requested to perform each exercise using their highest voluntary speed (RPE [14][15][16].…”

“…When compared to the young, the older adults showed greater center of pressure displacement (CP-D), 5-7 CP-D velocity, 5,8 muscular activities, and agonist-antagonist co-activation during a period of quiet stand position. 7 Several studies have analyzed the effects of the different exercises programs in the postural control in elderly, such as strength training, 9 power training, 10 and exercise programs combining walking, strength and flexibility, 11 postural exercises, [12][13][14][15] dance, 16 Tai Chi, 17 and water-based exercises. [18][19][20] Water-based programs are an interesting exercising alternative for the older adults because they may reduce the fear of falling, are enjoyable and motivating, and have shown a high compliance rate.…”

A Biomechanical Study for Developing Wearable-Sensor System to Prevent Hip Fractures among Seniors

“…The majority of previous researches have tended to focus on prevention related to balance ability of seniors and what causes a fall to occur [7,17,22], but what if the inevitable does take place? It is essential to determine fall characteristics and how they differ from that of normal activities.…”

Gordura corporal total e do tronco e o desempenho da marcha em mulheres na menopausa

“…O processo do envelhecimento somado à menopausa no sexo feminino está associado a diversas alterações fisiológicas 1,2 , metabólicas e estruturais, dentre elas podemos citar a redução da atividade e do desempenho neuromuscular 3 , da capacidade cardiorrespiratória 4 e, consequentemente, da capacidade funcional 5 . Nesse período, também ocorrem mudanças significativas na composição corporal, com aumento da massa corporal total e gordura corporal, principalmente na região do tronco 6 .…”