Age-Related Changes in Gait and Obstacle Avoidance Capabilities in Older Adults: A Review

Abstract

Walking is a fundamental motor skill that significantly affects the level of independence in older adults today. Changes in gait and obstacle avoidance strategies have been well documented in the literature, and falling has been shown to be one of the most significant health care concerns in the elderly population today. Falls are a major contributor to the increasing morbidity rates seen in the older population, and in many cases, alterations in gait or stepping ability have played a significant role. This reviewexamines the specific changes seen in gait and obstacle avoidance in the elderly population and some of the underlying changes seen in sensory capability that play a role in safe and efficient ambulation in older adults. Normal gait (unassisted ambulation) will be presented, followed by an examination of the literature that has examined changes in performance factors associated with gait and obstacle avoidance strategies.