In community-dwelling older adults, will age-related declines in sitting balance be closely related to declines in standing balance and fall-related factors?

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to analyze the relationship between dynamic balance in the sitting positions and dynamic balance in the standing positions and fall-associated factors among older adults living in the community.

Methods: Subjects were 50 healthy elderly individuals over 65 years of age. Subjects were divided into a non-fall group and a fall group according to whether they had fallen in the past year. Dynamic balance function was assessed by measuring the total trajectory length of the center of pressure (COP) in the standing and sitting positions, as well as the maximum movement width of the COP during maximum reach in the anterior-posterior and medial-lateral directions. In addition, other fall factors, such as maximum walking velocity, anteflexion in long-sitting position, and muscle strength (trunk flexion/extension, hip flexion/abduction, and knee extension), were measured. Correlation coefficients and factor analysis were used to examine the association between the assessment items of physical function.

Results: Regarding the relationship between the standing position and sitting position in terms of dynamic balance pa rameters, the coefficient of maximum medial/lateral COP displacement showed a higher correlation than that of maximum anterior/posterior COP displacement. Factor analysis indicated that dynamic balance in the standing and sitting positions was a factor independent of muscle strength.

Conclusions: Dynamic balance capability in the sitting position was related to standing balance, but independent of muscle strength. Dynamic balance capability in the sitting position was not directly related to the factors of falling. However, dynamic balance capability in the sitting position can also contribute to the improvement of posture and balance function as an exercise.