From the Journals

Longer Balance Tests Better Predict Falls

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A longitudinal study conducted on community-dwelling older adults recommended lengthening balance-testing protocols to at least 23 seconds to better detect balance deficits and predict fall risk. Significant predictors of future falls included mediolateral amplitude of Center of Pressure displacement and sustained balance times in challenging positions. The study demonstrated the protective effect of maintaining tandem and single-leg stance positions for longer durations against falls. Notable sex differences were observed, with males demonstrating greater Center of Pressure displacement but longer stance maintenance times compared with females.

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