Gerontology & Geriatric Research

Abstract

Postural Stability of Women Over 60 Years: Physically Active and Physically Inactive

Joanna Åšcibek*, Lidia Ilnicka, Katarzyna Bienias, Tomasz Marciniak and Ida Wiszomirska

Introduction and objective: Maintaining an upright posture requires the human nervous system to integrate information from visual, vestibular, proprioceptive and exteroceptive systems in order to determine the appropriate neuromuscular strategy. All elements of postural control are affected by involutional changes which, consequently, lead to loss of balance and falls. Taking up physical activity is an important preventive measure. The purpose of this study is: (1) To assess the impact of physical activity on postural stability of women between 60 and 84 years of age and (2) To evaluate the participation of visual feedback in compensation for balance disorders.

Materials and methods: The study group consisted of 56 female, between 60 and 84 years of age. They were divided into two groups: the first consisted of 26 women who were physically active and the second comprised of 30 women not involved in any organized forms of physical activity. Postural stability was measured using Biodex Balance System (BBS) in combined conditions of visual feedback (eyes open and eyes closed) and on different platform stability (static and unstable surface).

Results: There were no statistically significant differences between the study groups in the tests conducted with visual feedback. The tests performed without visual feedback showed substantial differences in each of the presented indicators (OSI, APSI, MLSI) in favour of women who were regularly involved in organized forms of physical activity.

Conclusion: The results confirm the positive impact of physical activity on the postural stability of women over 60 years of age. The most significant differences between the studied groups were observed in tests performed without visual feedback. The results show how important the organ of vision is in controlling a stable posture, and how important it is to train other sensory inputs which affect postural stability.