MODULE SUPPLEMENT: MUSCULO-SKELETAL SYSTEM
Mobility Changes

Older adults have a decrease in their reaction time. That is, it takes longer to respond to an event, such as a cat running in front of you. It also takes longer to react to two different choices, such as rapidly deciding to swerve left or right to avoid an object. Loss of muscle strength and muscle power can lead to difficulty rising from a chair, walking up stairs, moving quickly, and maintaining adequate posture. Altered postural control and balance are also be affected by changes in central neurological mechanisms.

Changes in muscle strength and balance were exemplified by data from Bohannon and colleagues back in 1984 that demonstrated a decreased ability to perform one leg stance.

Often there is a change in posture in advanced age with a broad based, small-stepped gait, stooped posture, and decreased arm swing.

These changes are important because they influence safety and vulnerability to falls.