Motion analysis in the elderly: Evaluation of an APA program on the gait of elderly using an inertial motion capture system

Elderly walking performance undergoes a natural physiological decline that, from a biomechanical point of view, it is manifested by an alteration of the spatial-temporal characteristics of the gait. The quantitative assessment of the gait in the elderly requires an objective and reliable evaluation system that can be used under conditions of daily living. The aim of this study was to investigate, using an inertial motion capture system, the effects of five months of a structured Adapted Physical Activity (APA) program on the main characteristics of the gait in the elderly, detected directly within the homecare. Data relating to spatialtemporal parameters have been objectively and systematically acquired, through this wireless inertial sensor positioned on the L5 spinal segment, before and after the implementation of the APA program. The research was carried out in two Italian elderly centres. The sample consisted of 11 elderly aged between 70 and 92 years (82.55 +/- 7.43). The results obtained found a substantial improvement in speed, cadence, stride length, symmetry index, cycle time, single support phase and swing duration after the implementation of the APA program. In conclusion, this study revealed a high feasibility of the APA structured program and a readable efficacy in the use of inertial motion capture system for the evaluation of the gait in the elderly homecare. In relation to the number of the sample, the results are more suggestive than conclusive, hence suggest the need for further research on the effects across a larger range of subjects.