The functional ambulation performance of elderly fallers and non-fallers walking at their preferred velocity

Abstract

The purpose of the researchers was to determine if there is a difference in the Functional Ambulation Performance score and step/extremity ratio of senior adults with and without a history of falls walking at a preferred velocity. A random sample of twenty-four senior adults was selected to participate in this study. The participants underwent several tests for balance, strength, ankle flexibility, and foot sensation. Statistical analysis of the two groups demonstrated a significant decrease in FAP score for those with a history of falls. They had lower values for step/extremity ratios, mean normalized velocity, and greater values for step times, heel to heel base of support, and percent in double support. There was also a significant decrease in balance, strength, and tactile sensation between the two groups. These findings suggest that there is a measurable decrease in the performance of gait in senior adults who have fallen that may be related to diminished strength, balance, and tactile sensation.