Risk of falls in older people during fast-walking - The TASCOG study

Abstract

Aims: To investigate the relationship between fast-walking and falls in older people. Methods: Individuals aged 60-86 years were randomly selected from the electoral roll (n=. 176). Gait speed, step length, cadence and a walk ratio were recorded during preferred- and fast-walking using an instrumented walkway. Falls were recorded prospectively over 12 months. Log multinomial regression was used to estimate the relative risk of single and multiple falls associated with gait variables during fast-walking and change between preferred- and fast-walking. Covariates included age, sex, mood, physical activity, sensorimotor and cognitive measures. Results: The risk of multiple falls was increased fo..