Aging and Performance in Manual lifting activities: An experimental investigation

Abstract

This paper reports the results of a research study on the dynamic psychophysical strengths of the older population (aged 55 to 74 years; n = 20) for manual lifting activities (maximum acceptable weight of lift - MAWL). Lifting activities simulating work-related tasks included 8 sequences of lifting, involving a combination of 2 lifting heights, and 4 lifting frequencies. For each sequence, the MAWL was determined. Psychophysical lifting strengths of a younger population (18 to 35 years; n = 20) were compared to the MAWL of the older group. In addition to MAWL, the Heart Rate (HR), oxygen uptake (VO₂), and category-ratio ratings of perceived exertion (CRRPE) were recorded. Results indicated no practically significant age-related differences in responses between either the older and younger males, or between the older and younger females. Based on the limited data collected in this study, it appears that age has no significant influence on people's capability to lift loads. Consequences of these findings on design are also discussed.

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