An overview of the effect of ageing on hand function

Abstract

Effective hand function involves many complex interrelated processes. Proprioceptive and sensory feedback mechanisms need to be complete, as well as sound hand to eye coordination. Intrinsic and extrinsic hand musculature needs to be well controlled before hand function can truly be smoothly coordinated and effective. In older people, there may be a decrease in hand function without evident trauma or disease. A natural decline in hand function is to be expected in the older population. However, this is not necessarily an irreversible loss – many of the conditions associated with loss of hand function are not a consequence of ageing so much as a consequence of inactivity. This article provides a critical review of the literature on the effect of the ageing process on hand function.