Subscribe now

Health

Slower arm speed may be why older people fall more easily after a slip

Younger people move their arms more quickly than their older counterparts when they slip, helping them to regain their balance and prevent a fall

By James Woodford

27 December 2023

Falls can become more common as we age, which may be due to older people being slower to move their arms when they slip

francescoridolfi.com//iStockphoto/Getty Images

Older people may be more at risk of falls because their arms are slower to respond when they slip, compared with their younger counterparts. Such movements help people to regain their balance.

The findings suggest that older people should be trained in moving their arms more quickly to avoid fall-related injuries, says team member Jonathan Lee-Confer at the University of Arizona.

He and his team focused on…

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

View introductory offers

No commitment, cancel anytime*

Offer ends 28th October 2023.

*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.

Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account