POSTURAL-MOTOR CONTROL CHARACTERISTICS IN OLDER FEMALE FALLERS

The paper presents data on the characteristics of a postural-motor control (PMC) in female fallers 65-74 years old (twice or more fallers during a year). Evaluation of PMC parameters was carried out using computer posturographic (stabilometric) complex «Balance Master». «Sit to stand» test analysis showed a rate decrease in the average rise index (p = 0,009) and a rate increase in the average speed of the gravity center (GC) oscillation (p = 0,003) in older women with F. Comparative evaluation of the test «Walk Across» found a decline in the average step length (p = 0,042) and the average speed of walking (p = 0,029) in the surveyed female fallers. Characteristics of the test «Tandem Walk» showed a rate decrease in the average final GC oscillation (p <0,001), which indicates the changes in neurophysiological mechanisms that provide precise movements in female fallers aged 65-74 years old. There was a significant change in all the rates of the test «Step/Quick Turn» in the surveyed female fallers, indicating a reduction of adaptation capabilities and functions of neurophysiological mechanisms of complex-motor acts during the development of this syndrome. Rates of turnaround time, and features of GC management when turning in the test «Step/Quick Turn» were the most informative indices in characterizing older female fallers, therefore, they are the most important indicators of screening for risk assessment. Based on the data of the study it can be concluded that the decrease in the adaptive capacity and efficiency of functioning of neurophysiological mechanisms of PMC in women 65 years and older is one of the most important risk factors for the development of fallers.

older women, fallers, postural-motor control, walking, computer stabilometry (posturography)