As people grow older, assessing healthy ageing becomes a central concern, traditionally evaluated through indicators like walking speed and grip strength. While these methods remain valuable, recent research published in PLOS ONE offers an even simpler alternative: the ability to stand on one leg and maintain balance. This accessible technique is especially useful for identifying early signs of ageing, requiring no special equipment or complex testing.
The Balance Test and Its Connection to Ageing
The study highlights that among adults over 50, the duration they can stand on one leg, particularly on their non-dominant leg, tends to decrease with age. Researchers found that this balancing ability diminished notably in older participants, serving as a clear marker of ageing for both men and women. This straightforward test could potentially offer a new, uncomplicated approach to assessing age-related decline in physical function.
Study Insights: Comparing Different Age Groups
Researchers from Mayo Clinic and other institutions examined a sample of 40 healthy adults split into two age groups: those under 65 and those over 65. They measured each participant’s strength, balance, and walking ability. While walking has long been thought to reveal ageing, the study showed little difference in walking patterns across the age groups, suggesting that walking alone may not accurately reflect age-related physical changes.
Balancing Abilities Decline with Age
The findings reveal that balance declines substantially with age. For instance, older adults were able to balance on their non-dominant leg for an average of just 2.2 seconds, while balancing on the dominant leg lasted only 1.7 seconds before noticeable body sway occurred. Alongside balance, other markers like grip and knee strength also showed significant reductions.
Practical Implications of the Balance Test
The simplicity and practicality of this balance test make it particularly groundbreaking. Unlike other methods that may require specialized equipment or clinical settings, this easy-to-perform test can be done at home. By testing balance on one leg, adults can quickly assess their own ageing trajectory, potentially catching early signs of physical decline.
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a health advice. We would ask you to consult a qualified professional or medical expert to gain additional knowledge before you choose to consume any product or perform any exercise.
