In the aging population, falls risk has been highly associated with a reduction in balance abilities. For this reason, our lab uses several paradigms to probe age-related changes in postural control as well as reactionary responses. These paradigms include:
- Tether-release studies (which simulate tripping scenarios) have examined foot-in-place and stepping responses in young and old populations.
- Crouching and kneeling tasks have been used to investigate balance control during activities of daily living that involve changes in posture and base of support.
- Field studies using Wii boards have been completed in assisted-living facilities to examine balance control in settings outside of the traditional laboratory. For these studies, relationships between the centre of mass, centre of pressure, and base of support are often key components we use to examine factors that affect postural stability.
