From the Journals

Longer Balance Tests Better Predict Falls

New research suggests extending standard balance assessment times from 10 to 23 seconds more accurately identifies fall risk in older adults. Plus, stance maintenance could serve as a key predictor of future falls.

By
Kerri Miller
February 13, 2025
3 min

Conexiant

1

Balance-testing protocols for older adults should be lengthened to at least 23 seconds.
2

Maintaining tandem and single-leg stance positions for longer durations serves as a protective factor against falls.
3

Notable sex differences were observed in the study, with males demonstrating greater Center of Pressure displacement but longer stance maintenance times compared with females.
4

Common comorbidities among the participants included arterial hypertension, dyslipidemia, hypothyroidism, and osteoarthritis.
5

The study demonstrates the need for better balance deficit detection and fall risk prediction in community-dwelling older adults.