Hiroki Sugiura^1,, Shinichi Demura², Yu Uchida³

To maintain a stable posture on an unstable moving stool is performed by few in daily life. Hence, the achievement of a stable posture on an unstable moving stool may be difficult even for the elderly with high independence in daily activities. The passive dynamic balance ability required for the above movement has close relationships with activities of daily living (ADL) and fall risk. This study aimed to examine differences between the female elderly [possible group (PG), n = 123] who could maintain a stable posture on an unstable stool leaning sharply in the backward and forward directions for 20 s (balance board test) and those could not maintain this posture [impossible group (IG), n = 20] for physical functions, ADL, fall experience, and fall risk. Physical functions included isometric leg strength, balance ability, and walking ability. They were administered the above-stated various tests and surveys on ADL, fall experience, and fall risk. PG showed significantly lower rates of fall experience than those shown by IG. In addition, PG was superior in one-leg standing with eyes open, 10-m walking, and ADL compared with IG, but an insignificant difference was found for leg strength between both groups. In conclusion, the female elderly who cannot perform the present balance board test have more fall experience and are inferior in static balance ability, walking ability, and ADL compared with the elderly who can perform it despite having similar static leg strength.

maintain a stable posture, unstable stool, physical functions, fall