Effects of Aging on Depth Perception
Falls can be life-changing for older adults, potentially resulting in decreased mobility or the inability to live independently. Although falls are often attributed to trip hazards and home design, a third factor comes into play: depth perception. This form of visual impairment increases fall risks among seniors. Depth perception alters visual and sensory processing abilities,…
What Are Activities of Daily Living?
As we grow older, certain evaluations can assess our difficulties performing Activities of Daily Living, also known as ADLs. Related to elderly health, ADLs encompass tasks related to personal care and everyday functioning, including bathing, dressing, cooking, toileting, eating, cleaning and walking. Being unable to perform an activity without assistance indicates a limitation. Based on…
How Alzheimer’s Disease Can Affect Mobility
A degree of mobility loss is expected with age, but certain conditions can accelerate this pattern. Specifically, Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia can result in slower movements and increases risk for falls and other accidents. Until recently, Alzheimer’s was primarily considered a cognitive condition. Yet new studies have identified a relationship between disease…
What Is Sarcopenia?
Loss of muscle mass occurs naturally with age. This process begins around 30 and gradually starts to affect strength. Yet the rate at which muscle mass declines is not uniform across all people. Sarcopenia refers to rapid, age-related loss of muscle mass, strength and function. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recognized sarcopenia…