Abstract
Gait disorders are a relevant factor for falls and possible to measure with wearable devices. If a wearable sensor can detect differences in gait parameters between fallers and non-fallers has not yet been studied. The aim of this study was to measure and compare gait parameters, vestibular function, and balance performance between fallers and non-fallers among a group of older persons. Participants were senior members (n = 101) of a Swedish non-profit gymnastic association. Gait parameters were obtained using an inertial measurement unit (IMU) that the participants wore on the leg while walking an obstacle course and on an even surface. Vestibular function was assessed by the Head-shake test, the Head impulse test, and the Dix–Hallpike maneuver. Balance was assessed by the Timed Up and Go, the Timed Up and Go manual, and the Timed Up and Go cognitive tests. Falls during the 12-month follow-up period were monitored using fall diaries. Forty-two persons (41%) had fallen during the 12-month follow-up. Fallers had more limited ability to vary their gait (gait flexibility) than non-fallers (p < 0.001). No other differences between fallers and non-fallers were found. The use of gait flexibility, captured by an IMU, seems better for identifying future fallers among healthy older persons than Timed Up and Go or Timed Up and Go combined with a cognitive or manual task.
Highlights
Falls are one of the most common reasons for immobilization and death in the older population [1]
The aim of this study was, to measure gait parameters among a group of older persons and to compare if there were any differences in gait parameters, vestibular function, and balance performance between fallers and non-fallers
There were differences between fallers and non-fallers in gait flexibility, both when walking the obstacle course without walking down the stairs as well as when walking the total obstacle course (p < 0.001), where fallers had more limited gait flexibility than non-fallers, see Figure 6. Both when excluding (P1) and including (P2) the stairs phase in the obstacle course analyses, the fallers rarely adjusted their gait pattern more than 13% compared to unobstructed walking, whereas a clear majority of the non-fallers utilized a more flexible gait pattern than 13% to address the obstacles
Summary
Falls are one of the most common reasons for immobilization and death in the older population [1]. Falls will be even more essential to address when large birth cohorts grow older and life expectancy increases. The number of older persons is rising and 16% of the total world population is expected to be 65 or older by 2050 [2]. Of people 65 years or older fall annually and the number of fallers increases to 32–42% in persons 70 years or older [1]. Falls have more severe consequences for older persons than younger, and fall-related injuries more often lead to death and serious injury among older persons [3]. Fall-related injuries such as hip fractures, upper limb injuries, and brain damages require medical care [1]. A fall risk assessment and protective actions have been recommended to be considered, at the latest, after the first fall [6]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call