POSTURAL DISORDERS PROGNOSIS AMONG ELDERLY PEOPLE

Aim - finding out the features of postural disorders among elderly people. Materials and methods. 47 patients above the age of 90 were analyzed. There were no disorders in particular functional systems to be noticed in these patients’ neurological status, although the patients complained of problems with balance function. All the patients were neurologically examined; the anamnesis data and computer stabilometry were investigated. Control group included patients of different age groups without any balance dysfunction according to computer stabilometry data. We used logistic regression to elicit connection between clinical and instrumental factors. Only significant regressors were taken into consideration. Results. The difference between the group of long-livers and the other age groups is about the modification of universal statokinesigram indicators. The suggested mathematical model included the area of statokinesigram, the speed of changing of the pressure center, Romberg’s coefficient and spectral statokinesigram parameters. Swift of the statokinesigram frequency range towards the low frequency characterizes tension or “failure” of compensatory mechanisms providing postural functions in this age group. Sensibility of this model is 95.5%, specificity is 69.5%. Conclusion. Long-living patients can be characterized as a group with a high risk of postural disorders and falls. Obtained mathematical model can be used in the daily clinical practice to verify the risk of falls among long-livers who complain of balance dysfunction.

stabilometry, long-livers, balance function, risks of falls