Effect of noise-enhanced on the balance control ability in older adults

Abstract

Somatosensory function declines with age, and such changes have been associated with diminished motor performance. Noise input can enhance sensory and motor function. We tested the effects of the vibrating stimulation applied at the feet on balance control of 6 healthy elderly and 8 young volunteers. Balance performance was characterized using a FASTRAK System. We calculated four traditional measures of postural sway parameters and five stabilogram-diffusion analysis variables. Among the 14 participants, application of noise resulted in a reduction of seven of nine sway parameters in young participants and eight of nine sway variables in elderly participants. The results suggested that the imperceptible noise, when applied to the feet, could enhance the balance performance of healthy older adults. Therefore, using the noise-based devices may be an effective way to improve the balance control of elderly people. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2007.