Postural stability and handgrip strength in the older adults: Differences between fallers and non-fallers

The aim of this study was investigated differences in postural stability and handgrip strength between faller and non-fallers older adults. 169 older adults (76.5 +/- 7.5 years), were recruited and were divided in fallers (n = 58) and non-fallers (n= 111) groups according to their fall history. Postural stability measures were made in 3 different quite stance positions using a force platform. Total, anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) displacement of centre of pressure (COP) were then computed. Finally, muscle strength was assessed with the handgrip test. The results showed that those adults who fell one or more times in a year, have lower handgrip strength (-15.5; P< 0.001) and higher displacement of the COP (total and AP direction), than those that did not fell (P> 0.05 for the side-by-side stand and semi-stand positions). Moreover, associations between handgrip strength, total and AP COP displacement, and falls history were found. The present results indicates that control of balance in narrow base stances may be an important tool in identifying elderly fallers. The tests applied in the present study allowed to distinguish between fallers and non-fallers older adults, providing valuable information on this population which may help in the implementation of falls prevention and functional fitness protocols, contributing for promoting aging with quality of life.