Aging effect on risk of slipping after walkway perturbation training

Abstract

The objective of the current study was to evaluate the interaction effect between aging and a new walkway perturbation training on risk of slip initiation. A new walkway perturbation training program was developed using an instrumented, split-belt treadmill. Five healthy older adults and five younger adults were involved in a laboratory study. An inertial measurement unit was attached to the subject’s low back region to record 3D acceleration. Transitional acceleration of whole body center of mass (TACOM) was computed to quantify the risk of slip initiation. The results indicated a significant interaction effect between aging and training on TACOM. In conclusion, the walkway perturbation training program successfully reduced the risk of slip initiation for the older adults. Furthermore, the implementation of a fall prevention program should consider the possible interaction effect between aging and training.

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