Further evidence for age-related deficits in human postural function.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of aging on postural function in human subjects. Subjects aged 18-39 years (n = 24), 40-59 years (n = 24) and 60 years or older (n = 27) were tested for postural stability using an electronic balance platform. There was a significant increase in postural instability with increasing age (P < 0.0001), and as the conditions of testing became more difficult (P < 0.0001) (e.g., with eyes closed). Elderly males were found to have significantly poorer postural control than elderly females in the visual-vestibular conflict conditions (P < 0.05). These results further demonstrate a decline in postural function with increasing age, which may be related to deterioration in the peripheral or central vestibular systems and may be partly responsible for the high incidence of falls in the elderly.