POSSIBILITIES OF USING INERTIAL MEASUREMENT UNIT SENSOR FOR ASSESSING BALANCE ABILITIES IN THE ELDERLY

Nenad  Nedovic; Slavica Mutavdzin Krneta; Danilo Vujicic; Dragana Vukov; Stevan Jovanovic; Dmitry Skvortsov

doi:10.5937/smclk6-60839

Nenad Nedovic Academy of Applied Studies Belgrade, College of Health Sciences https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2863-7623
Slavica Mutavdzin Krneta Institute of Medical Physiology "Richard Burian", Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade
Danilo Vujicic Academy of Applied Studies Belgrade, College of Health Sciences
Dragana Vukov Academy of Applied Studies Belgrade, College of Health Sciences
Stevan Jovanovic Academy of Applied Studies Belgrade, College of Health Sciences
Dmitry Skvortsov Center for Brain and Neurotechnology, Moscow

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5937/smclk6-60839

Keywords: postural stability, aging, fall prevention, wearable technology, balance assessment

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate age-related changes in postural stability among healthy older adults using inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensors and assess the clinical potential of wearable technology for balance assessment in geriatric populations.

Methods: Thirty-four healthy participants aged > 65 years were divided into two age groups (65–75 and > 75 years). Balance was assessed using a sacrum-mounted IMU sensor during a 30-second semi-tandem stance in three trials.

Results: Participants > 75 years showed increased postural sway compared to younger counterparts. Gender differences revealed greater medio-lateral sway in males (p = 0.038). No significant differences were observed in sway velocity or ellipse area, suggesting effective compensatory mechanisms in static conditions.

Conclusion: IMU-based balance assessment demonstrates sensitivity in detecting subtle age-related postural changes, with practical advantages for both clinical and community settings.

Author Biography

Nenad Nedovic, Academy of Applied Studies Belgrade, College of Health Sciences

nastavnik veština na Katedri za strukovne fizioterapeute

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