Improving Gait Speed in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Brach Jennifer, Shuman Valerie, Perera Subashan
Primary Institution: University of Pittsburgh
Hypothesis
Mobility limitations are a result of the loss of motor skill in walking, and timing and coordination exercises are essential for mobility interventions.
Conclusion
Both interventions improved gait speed, but only the timing and coordination component helped faster walkers maintain their improvements.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants with slower initial gait speed improved after the intervention.
- Only participants in the PLUS group maintained improvements at the 12-week follow-up.
Takeaway
This study shows that exercises focusing on timing and coordination can help older people walk better, especially those who already walk fast.
Methodology
Participants over 64 years were randomized to either a standard strength and endurance intervention or a standard-plus timing and coordination intervention for 12 weeks.
Participant Demographics
Participants were older adults aged over 64 years.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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