Impact of Audio-Visual Cues on Walking in Older Adults

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: The Influence of Audio-Visual Cueing (Traffic Light) on Dual Task Walking in Healthy Older Adults and Older Adults with Balance Impairments
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Original source:

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Author:

Kitchana Kaewkaen, Phongphat Wongsamud, Jiratchaya Ngaothanyaphat, Papawarin Supawarapong, Suraphong Uthama, Worasak Ruengsirarak, Suthin Chanabun, Pratchaya Kaewkaen


The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:

(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)

Full text available for: The Influence of Audio-Visual Cueing (Traffic Light) on Dual Task Walking in Healthy Older Adults and Older Adults with Balance Impairments

Year: 2018 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2018.25.1.8

Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The dual-task capabilities of older adults, particularly those with balance impairments, are critical for ensuring their safety during activities that require ambulation in complex environments. Walking while performing another cognitive task can significantly hinder their gait performance, thus increasing their risk of falls. Previous research has indicated that external cues, especially audio-visual (AV) cues, can facilitate improvements in walking efficiency by enhancing motor control. This study aimed to assess the influence of an AV cue, specifically a simulated traffic light, on dual-task walking performance in both healthy older adults and those with balance impairments.

Influence of Audio-Visual Cues on Walking Performance

The investigation revealed that participants exposed to the simulated traffic light showed a significant improvement in walking speed during dual-task conditions compared to standard walking. Both healthy older adults and those with balance impairments exhibited higher mean walking speeds when they had the AV cue. This suggests that the presence of AV cues may help older adults prioritize the motor task of walking over the cognitive task they were performing simultaneously. Notably, while both groups experienced enhanced gait performance, the increase in speed did not meet the minimum threshold recommended for safely crossing streets. This points to the potential utility of such cues in rehabilitation programs aimed at improving the mobility and safety of older adults in real-world situations.

Conclusion

The findings from this study underscore the significant role that audio-visual cues can play in enhancing walking performance among older adults, particularly when engaged in dual-task scenarios. Incorporating these cues into rehabilitation interventions may promote safer ambulation and reduce fall risks among this vulnerable population. Further research is warranted to explore the broader applications of AV cues across different settings and their effectiveness in various cognitive-predictive contexts, as well as to assess long-term outcomes associated with their use.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What was the aim of the study on dual task walking?

The study aimed to investigate the influence of an audio-visual cue, specifically a simulated traffic light, on dual task walking in healthy older adults and older adults with balance impairments, as no clear evidence was previously established regarding its effectiveness.

How many participants were involved in the study?

A total of 28 participants were involved, consisting of 14 healthy older adults and 14 older adults with balance impairments, recruited from the community in Chiang Rai, Thailand.

What methods were used to assess walking performance?

Walking performance was assessed using a four-metre walking test under various conditions, including normal walking, dual task walking, and dual task walking with an audio-visual cue, while spatio-temporal parameters were recorded using two Kinect cameras.

What were the findings regarding walking speed with external cues?

The study found that using an audio-visual cue increased walking speed during dual task walking for both healthy older adults and those with balance impairments, suggesting that AV cues could enhance motor control and performance.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Impact of Audio-Visual Cues on Walking in Older Adults”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Study (Studying):
The 'Study' is crucial as it investigates the impacts of audio-visual cues on dual task walking in older adults, particularly those with balance impairments. Understanding this relationship can provide insights into improving gait performance, thereby enhancing safety and mobility for the aging population, contributing to better health outcomes.

2) Table:
In research, a 'Table' is essential for presenting data clearly and concisely. It organizes results in an accessible way, allowing for quick comparison of variables such as walking speed, stride length, and cadence across different conditions and participant groups, facilitating easier interpretation of statistical findings.

3) Tai:
The term 'Thai' indicates the geographical and cultural context of the research. Conducted in Chiang Rai, Thailand, the study specifically targets local older adults, which can highlight unique challenges and behaviors influenced by cultural practices and environmental factors relevant to this demographic group in their daily lives.

4) Performance:
Performance refers to how well individuals execute tasks—in this case, walking while dual-tasking. Assessing performance helps determine the effect of external cues on gait dynamics, which is vital for formulating effective interventions to enhance mobility and reduce fall risks in older adults, ultimately improving their overall functional capability.

5) Disease:
The inclusion of 'Disease' is relevant as it highlights health issues affecting older adults, such as balance impairments. Understanding how diseases impact mobility informs healthcare strategies, rehabilitation efforts, and the implementation of supportive tools like audio-visual cues, which can become integral in managing these health-related challenges.

6) Street:
'Street' is significant as the study examines walking conditions similar to real-life scenarios older adults face, like crossing streets. This connection emphasizes the practical implications of the findings in enhancing real-world safety and mobility for older individuals, especially in environments with traffic and other hazards.

7) Measurement:
Measurement involves quantifying variables like walking speed, stride length, and cadence during the study. Accurate measurement is vital for validating the effectiveness of interventions, allowing researchers to assess changes over time and compare outcomes across different studies, ultimately leading to evidence-based practices in geriatric care.

8) Life:
'Life' pertains to the quality and health of older adults, which is a core focus of the study. Enhancing walking performance through audio-visual cues is directly linked to improving their quality of life, thereby fostering independence, reducing fall risks, and promoting active participation in societal activities.

9) Quality:
'Quality' refers to the standard of living and health among the older adults in the study. Improving quality of life through enhanced mobility and safety directly impacts their physical and mental well-being, as better mobility fosters independence and positively influences social engagement and personal health practices.

10) Thomas:
'Thomas' refers to a researcher mentioned in the study who contributed insights on how meaningful sounds can enhance visual sensitivity to human gait. This highlights the collaborative nature of research and the importance of drawing on various studies to support findings regarding the benefits of audio-visual cues.

11) Sign:
In research, 'Sign' is relevant in statistical contexts indicating the significance of findings, such as the effect of audio-visual cues on walking performance. Understanding which cues significantly enhance performance can inform interventions designed to aid older adults, particularly those at risk of falls due to impaired balance.

12) Calculation:
'Calculation' refers to processes such as analyzing scores or speeds to deduce correlations and outcomes based on the data. Accurate calculations underpin credible research results, providing statistical evidence for the effectiveness of interventions and potential improvements in gait performance for different participant groups.

13) Perception:
'Perception' plays a role in how older adults interpret and react to dual tasks while walking. This affects their cognitive load and attentional allocation. Understanding perception helps refine interventions that guide their focus, ultimately improving mobility outcomes through tailored audio-visual stimuli.

14) Education:
'Education' reflects the participants' knowledge and understanding which can influence their performance in the walking tasks during the study. Higher education might correlate with a better comprehension of complex tasks, thus impacting how they integrate cognitive and motor functions during dual-task walking.

15) Lighting:
'Lighting' may influence older adults' balance and mobility by affecting visibility and cues in their environment. Proper lighting, along with audio-visual cues, is essential in facilitating safer navigation. Addressing lighting may enhance stability and perception during walking, thereby reducing fall risks.

16) Channel:
'Channel' can refer to sensory modalities used for receiving audio-visual cues. Understanding how older adults process multisensory information assists in designing effective interventions. Utilizing multiple channels may heighten situational awareness, which is critical in improving walking performance under dual-task conditions.

17) Music:
'Music' as an external cue could be explored in future studies to determine its impact on gait. Introducing rhythmic audio cues might assist in establishing a rhythm for older adults, thus facilitating better movement coordination and potentially enhancing their comfort and confidence while walking.

18) Rules:
'Rules' may relate to the methodology and the structured design of the study protocols that guide participant behavior during tests. By adhering to specific rules, researchers can ensure consistency, reliability, and validity in assessing the effects of audio-visual cues on walking performance.

19) Noise:
'Noise' is relevant as it reflects the environmental distractions that older adults may encounter while walking. Understanding how background noise impacts performance can inform the development of quiet spaces or controlled environments for dual-task training, promoting safer walking experiences.

20) Road:
'Road' draws parallels with the street context, emphasizing the dangers older adults encounter when moving in traffic. Examining road-crossing experiences under dual-task demands enhances the relevance and applicability of findings, showing how audio-visual cues may improve their safety crossing roadways.

21) Pain:
'Pain' signifies physical discomfort that can hinder mobility among older adults. Assessing pain levels can provide insights into how it intersects with balance and walking performance, shaping approaches for rehabilitation and interventions aimed at improving overall quality of life and mobility.

22) Ter:
'Ther' could imply 'therapy' relating to rehabilitation practices aimed at enhancing physical mobility through guided interventions. It highlights the importance of developing therapeutic practices that can effectively integrate audio-visual cues to better support the needs of older adults with mobility challenges.

23) Chan:
'Chan' may refer to another researcher involved in the methodology. Collaborative efforts in research strengthen the study’s foundation, ensuring diverse expert insights contribute to the design and analysis, ultimately leading to comprehensive strategies aimed at improving walking performance in older adults.

24) Discussion:
'Discussion' is necessary for interpreting results, linking findings to existing literature on dual-task and audio-visual cueing. This section contextualizes study implications and fosters deeper understanding, guiding future research by synthesizing knowledge, challenges, and potential applications in geriatric healthcare and rehabilitation.

25) Activity:
'Activity' pertains to the everyday movements and tasks performed by older adults, highlighting the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle. This study aims to support safe mobility through enhanced walking performance, which is crucial for encouraging older adults to engage in physical and social activities.

26) Reason:
'Reason' refers to the justification for conducting this study—the need to find effective ways to improve walking in older adults, particularly under challenging dual-task scenarios. Understanding reasons for mobility issues drives research efforts to develop interventions that enhance safety and quality of life for seniors.

27) Miṇi (Mini):
'Mini' likely relates to the Mini-Mental State Examination, a tool used to assess cognitive function in older adults. Understanding cognitive states is critical in interpreting how cognitive tasks affect walking performance, ensuring that interventions are designed according to participants’ mental and physical capabilities.

28) Line:
'Line' might refer to the alignment in walking paths or straightness required during test conditions, crucial for assessing gait parameters accurately. It highlights the importance of maintaining a straight path in walking tests and its role in evaluating mobility and stability outcomes in older adults.

29) Post:
'Post' can indicate 'post-study' evaluations that allow for reflection on findings and implications for practice. Engaging in post-study discussions helps to clarify the benefits observed and shapes future research directions, ensuring that results contribute to enhancing older adults' mobility and quality of life.

Other Science Concepts:

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