Effect of Aging and Cortical Stroke on Motor Adaptation to Overground Gait-Slips: Quantifying Differences in Adaptation Rate and Adaptation Plateau

We examined the effect of aging and cortical stroke on rate motor adaptation (adaptation rate) amount performance gains plateau) in balance skills. Fourteen older (≥60 years) fifteen younger (<60 adults with chronic stroke, thirteen healthy participated. Participants experienced 8 consecutive gait-slips (≤45 cm) to their non-paretic/dominant limb. Slip outcome (backward/no loss) was compared using generalized estimating equations (GEE). Proactive (pre-slip stability) reactive adjustments (post-slip stability, slip displacement velocity, compensatory step length) were non-linear regression models. GEE showed main group, trial, group × trial interaction for (p < 0.05). There no differences proactive variables plateau > However, both groups demonstrated a smaller majority The does not slow stroke; however, age notwithstanding, may reduce skills, possibly hindering retention transfer real-life scenarios. People need adjunctive therapies/supplemental agents apply laboratory-acquired skills daily life.