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A slower walking pace is a common part of aging, but the reason may be more complex than previously thought. New findings suggest that older adults unconsciously prioritize staying upright and stable, even if it requires more effort and energy. Although this shift may help maintain balance, researchers found that it can also lead to slower walking speeds, greater fatigue, and a heightened susceptibility to falls.
The study assessed walking patterns in 107 healthy adults between the ages of 26 and 86. Results showed that older adults increasingly activate opposing ankle muscles at the same time, a process called co-contraction. While this increases ankle stiffness and improves balance during walking, it also reflects a shift in how the aging body maintains stability.
The added stiffness helps keep older adults stable, but it comes with trade-offs. Reduced push-off power limits stride length and slows walking pace, producing a more cautious gait. In essence, the nervous system shifts into a safety-first mode, favoring balance and control over speed and efficiency.
This seemingly minor change suggests that age-related changes in walking are driven, in part, by the nervous system's adaptation to declining muscle performance.
These changes can make walking more exhausting and reduce the ability to recover from slips or trips, increasing the risk of falls. The good news is that simple interventions, such as regular exercise, tai chi, lower-leg strengthening, and coordination training, may help preserve mobility and balance with age.
The findings could help shape improved prevention and rehabilitation programs aimed at reducing fall risk and promoting healthy aging. Regular physical activity, even in modest amounts, may play a key role in helping older adults remain active, independent, and confident in their daily lives.
To view the original scientific study click below:
Ageing alters ankle mechanics and muscle co-contraction patterns across the gait cycle
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