Abstract
As there is lack of understanding about the effect of transitioning between different flooring materials on the gait of older adults, this study investigated the effect of transitioning between a carpeted floor and a vinyl floor on the gait characteristics of older adults. Fourteen older (65 years old and over) and 14 younger (18 to 35 years old) adults walked on different transitional floors by measuring various gait parameters. While the older participants had greater toe clearance than their younger counterparts, the older participants had smaller toe clearance on a carpeted floor than on a vinyl floor, which would increase the probability of a trip-induced fall. Further, the study found the slower transitional acceleration of the whole body COM and the increased friction demand, especially during the toe-off phase, rather than heel contact phase, which will lead to a slip-induced fall on a vinyl floor shortly after transitioning from a carpeted floor to a vinyl floor. Although the increased likelihood of a slip or trip accident was found throughout the changes in gait parameters, the older participants did not perceive of slipping and tripping much. Therefore, the elderly are recommended to be made aware of the danger of slipping and tripping while transitioning between different flooring materials.
Highlights
As people grow older, they are more likely to increase risk of falling and consequent injuries.In 2015, the number of people age 65 and older in the United States was 47.8 million, which accounted for 14.9 percent of the total population [1]
The objective of this study is to investigate the degree to which transitioning between different flooring materials affects gait characteristics of older adults
This study found that the elderly participants had smaller friction demand at the heel contact phase than did their younger counterparts, which is consistent with previous research [22]
Summary
They are more likely to increase risk of falling and consequent injuries. In 2015, the number of people age 65 and older in the United States was 47.8 million, which accounted for 14.9 percent of the total population [1]. The older population is anticipated to more than double to over 98 million by 2060 [2]. It is well documented that falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans [3], resulting in financial burden for treating fall injuries and loss of independence [4,5]. Fall-related injury is one of the 20 most expensive medical conditions among community-dwelling older adults [6]. The costs for treating fall injuries to Medicare totaled over
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