Postural Adjustment for Stepping onto Multiple Potential Targets in Older Adults

Abstract

When stepping forward from a standing position, controlling foot placement and maintaining balance are crucial. However, it has been noted that simultaneous management of these factors can be challenging for older adults. To investigate whether posture before stepping takes post-landing balance into account, we developed a specific task and conducted it with 17 healthy older adults (aged 74.0 ± 6.4 years) and 10 younger adults (aged 27.9 ± 7.4 years). The results showed that while older adults, like younger ones, adjusted their posture considering post-landing balance, they tended to take longer to initiate these adjustments. This suggests that although healthy older adults can simultaneously manage foot placement and balance, they may face difficulties in executing these actions promptly.