Static postural stability and sway spectrum of elderly individuals

Objective To observe the static postural sway spectrum and postural stability of elderly individuals at different ages and analyze the main risk factors for impairment in static balance among elderly individuals over the age of 60 years. Methods Eighty-five elderly individuals at the age of 60-94 years were divided into 60-74 years old group and≥75 years old group.Forty-one healthy individuals at the age of 18-30 years served as a control group.Their static stability（ST） and postural sway spectrum in standing with eyes opened were measured using the Tetrax balance system. Results No significant difference was observed in postural sway intensity at F1（0.01-0.10Hz） among different groups.The postural sway intensity at F2-F7（0.10–3.00Hz） and at F8（≥3.00 Hz） was higher in≥75 years old group than in 60-74 years old group and control group（P＜0.01） with no significant difference between 60-74 years old group and control group.The ST was higher in≥75 years old group than in 60-74 years old group and control group（P＜0.05） with no significant difference between 60-74 years old group and control group. Conclusion The static postural control ability of old people at the age of≥75 years is significantly decreased.The dysfunction of peripheral and central vestibule and propriception is the main factor for the decreased postural control ability among elderly people.