Postural, physiological and psychological reactions to challenging balance: does age make a difference?

• DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afl002
• Publication Date: 2006-04-25T11:42:18Z
• Authors: Mark G. Carpenter; Allan L. Adkin; Lawrence R. Brawley; James S. Frank
• Keywords: Posturography

To determine if increases in balance challenge influenced concomitant change self-efficacy, state anxiety and physiological arousal, these changes were correlated with standing young older adults.A 2 x between- (age) by within-subject (balance challenge) factorial design.quiet trials performed on low high support-surface heights a research laboratory.14 Young (22-31 years) 14 (60-83 adults no known neurological or disorders, falls within the last year.Forceplate-derived measures of balance, anxiety, blood pressure task-specific coping self-efficacy.Independent age, mean position, amplitude frequency centre displacements significantly surface height, as efficacy. Decreased increased observed both age groups consistent stiffening strategy. Blood pressure, self-efficacy different postural control adults.Older used same strategy to cope lowered confidence associated surface. Converging evidence indicates that status, efficacy are related specific performance challenge. Findings highlight potential additive effects psychological factors clinical need consider comprehensive rehabilitation prevention techniques concern contributions deficits.