This study investigated the associations between Five-Factor Model personality traits and balance impairment and lower limb strength.
Methods
Middle-aged and older adults (Age range: 34–104 years; N >27,000) from six large samples from the US and England were assessed for standing balance, lower limb strength, personality traits, sociodemographic, and health-related variables.
Results
Higher extraversion, openness, agreeableness, and conscientiousness were related to lower balance impairment risk and better lower limb strength. Higher neuroticism was associated with higher risk of balance impairment and with weaker lower limb strength. Biological, clinical, behavioral, and psychological factors partially accounted for these associations between personality and risk of balance impairment. Depressive symptoms and physical activity partially mediated the associations between personality traits and limb strength.
Discussion
Personality traits have replicable associations with lower extremity functions. The study identifies potential moderators and mediators of these associations.
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