Aging, motor skill, and the energy cost of walking: implications for the prevention and treatment of mobility decline in older persons

Abstract

Background: Age-associated neural changes profoundly affect the biomechanics and energetics of walking, increase energy cost, and require novel approaches to exercise that focus on motor learning theory.

Methods: We present a conceptual framework for motor skill in walking, its effect on the energy cost of walking, and the influence of the aging brain.

Results: Motor learning theory and practice can be incorporated into interventions to promote skilled, energy efficient walking in older people.

Conclusions: An extensive literature on motor skill and motor learning, derived from neuroscience, sports medicine, and neurorehabilitation, can be applied to problems of walking in late life.

Keywords: Brain aging; Energy cost of walking; Gait.; Motor control.