Purpose] The objective of the present study was to determine whether there is an age-associated decline in static (SB) and/or dynamic (DB) balance between middle-aged and elderly women. [Subjects and Methods] Volunteer middle-aged (MG) and elderly (OG) women were divided into two groups (OG, n= 53; MG, n= 49). Indexes of balance were used to measure SB and DB using a platform system. Reaction time (RT) and movement velocity (MVL) were derived for the DB index. [Results] All SB and DB parameters

more »

... of the OG group were significantly inferior to those of the MG group, and the declines of RT and MVL in DB were remarkable. [Conclusion] Although large individual variations were found in balance ability, it was found that DB and SB declined with aging. The declines in RT and MVL in DB were particularly remarkable, indicating the need for a balance exercise program for the maintenance of neuromuscular and nerve functions.