Telereceptive and proprioceptive control of balance vs. body stability in elderly people.

BACKGROUND Maintaining functional fitness is an important problem in elderly people. Effective balance control is one of its main aspects. Evaluation and diagnosis of the weakest link in balance control (especially in this age group) facilitates appropriate prevention and rehabilitation. The goal of this study was to determine the role of the optic teleceptor and proprioception in maintaining body stability of elderly people. MATERIAL AND METHODS Balance control effectiveness and body stability was examined in 43 elderly people aged 65 and over by exposure to changing stimuli affecting tele- and proprioception. The participants were given false suggestions as to the vertical and horizontal planes of reference, and the position of the base was changed in different directions. Stabilographic parameters were acquired using an AccuGait platform. The results were compared with a control group of 53 healthy people under 30 years old. All study data were subjected to a statistical analysis. RESULTS Proprioceptive impulsation coming from the base was the key factor in body balance control. The results show a higher risk of falls in elderly people, especially during backwards inclination. CONCLUSIONS Changing spatial points of reference and position of the base activate body balance regulation mechanisms. The efficiency of these mechanisms in maintaining body stability is lower among elderly people, which indicates a need to implement appropriate prophylactic programmes in this age group.