PT 742 Lecture 4 Postural Control and Gait Changes in Older Adults

Postural control has multiple systems involved. What are the main systems at play?

neurological, msk, cardiopulmonary, cognition

which of these are typical gait changes you see in older adults? choose all:

a. increased reliance on ankle kinetics

b. decreased step and stride length

c. increased variability of gait

d. less upright posture

e. decreased variability of gait

b. decreased step and stride length

c. increased variability of gait

d. less upright posture

also increased stance time and DL support, DECREASED reliance on ankle kinetics and power, decreased excursion of movement on LE

What changes do you see with aging in regards to postural control?

delayed muscle onset and COP onset

possibly decreased APAs in older adults

APA phase > younger adults used less co activation strategy and more reciprocal activation

Select the most true statement

In regards to COP after perturbation in older adults:

a. you see a large difference in peak COM displacement with similar strategies to younger adults 

b. you see no difference in peak COM displacement with different strategies

c. there is not a large different in either peak COM displacement and strategy

d. none of the above

b. you see no difference in peak COM displacement with different strategies

During what tasks do falls typically occur?

short distance movements and transitional tasks

curb, stairs, crossing obstacles, ground uneven

What are age related changes found with anterior platform movement?

slower onset of TA< quads, proximal to distal strategy (hip), co activation of agonist/antagonist

list 3 intrinsic age related fall risk factors

somatosensory, CNS (coordination), neuromuscular

other: vision, hearing, cognition 

what are the two main causes of falls in long term care facilities?

weight shifting errors 41% and tripping 21%

where do most falls occur for community dwelling older adults?

inside their home, 55-6-%, often stairs

list 3 extrinsic fall risk factors

environmental hazards, medication, clutter