Biomechanical Characterisation of Gait in Older Adults

Abstract

The ageing of the global population, especially in developed countries, is driving significant societal changes. In Portugal, demographic data reflect a marked increase in the ageing index. Understanding gait alterations associated with ageing is essential for the early detection of mobility decline and fall risk. This study aimed to analyse gait patterns in older adults to contribute to a biomechanical ageing profile. Thirty-six community-dwelling older adults (29 female, 7 male; mean age: 74 years) participated. Gait data were collected using the Xsens full-body motion capture system, which combines inertial sensors with biomechanical modelling and sensor fusion. Spatiotemporal and kinematic parameters were analysed using descriptive statistics. Compared to younger adult norms, participants showed increased stance and double support phases, reduced swing phase, and lower gait speed, stride length, and cadence, with greater step width. Kinematic data showed reduced peak plantar flexion, knee flexion, and hip extension, but increased dorsiflexion peaks—adaptations aimed at stability. Despite a limited sample size and lack of clinical subgroups, results align with age-related gait literature. Findings support the utility of wearable systems like Xsens in capturing clinically relevant gait changes, contributing to normative biomechanical profiling and future mobility interventions.