Relationship between Fall History and Cognitive Functions in the Community-dwelling Elderly: Electromyogram Reaction Times in Cognitive Tasks

Abstract

This study investigated the correlation of the cognitive functions with fall history. [Participants and Methods] The mental and physical conditions of the participants were assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination, the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence, the Life-Space Assessment-Japanese edition, and the 10-meter Walk Test. Reaction Time and Premotor Time were measured while subjects were performing the Simple Reaction Task, the Go/No-go Reaction Task, and the Probe Reaction Task. [Results] The Premotor Times which correspond to the cognitive process were significantly longer in the fall group. [Conclusion] Delay of the cognitive process increases the risk of falls.