To investigate the associations between body sway assessed under different visual and multitasking conditions and later risk of fractures in older adults, highlighting the importance of these findings for fall prevention strategies.
Key Findings:
348 women (12.3%) and 149 men (5.7%) sustained a fracture during follow-up, with hazard ratios indicating significant risk factors.
In women, anterior-posterior sway velocity (HR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.01-1.08) and variation in sway velocity during dual-tasking (HR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.01-1.09) were associated with higher fracture risk.
In men, variation in lateral (HR, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.00-1.07) and anterior-posterior sway velocity (HR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.01-1.10) during dual-tasking was linked to increased fracture risk.
Higher body sway velocity and larger variation in sway velocity correlated with higher fracture risk under challenging conditions.
Interpretation:
Balance impairments, particularly under dual-tasking and eyes-closed conditions, are significant predictors of fracture risk in older adults, suggesting a need for targeted interventions.
Limitations:
The study's observational design limits causal inferences, and potential confounding factors such as medication use and environmental hazards may not have been fully accounted for.
Conclusion:
Improving balance through targeted interventions, such as structured exercise programs focusing on dual-tasking scenarios, may reduce fracture risk in older adults, especially under challenging conditions.
