Comparison of Standing Balance Parameters Between Rolling Walker Users and Potential Rolling Walker Users: A Pilot Study

Abstract

To identify differences in balance parameters between older actual rolling walker (RW) users and potential RW users, 26 mentally intact older individuals (13 RW users and 13 potential RW users) participated in this study. All potential users had received recommendations to obtain a RW in the preceding three months because of a history of falls or hospitalization during that time. The test was conducted with each subject performing a static stance without assistance on a force platform with eyes open. The results showed that the ellipse area, path length, and the range and velocity of body sway were significantly larger among the actual users than among the potential users (p <. 05). These suggest that the actual RW users had poorer postural control than the potential users under circumstance without a RW support.