The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between personal factors and perceived built environmental factors and walking behaviour among middle-aged and older adults. The sample consisted of 647 people aged 45 years and above. Walking behaviour was assessed using pedometers. Decreased walking was significantly associated with increased age (r=-0.366, p<0.001). Education level (F=4.13, p=0.016) and self-rated health status (t=6.07, p<0.001) were positively associated with walking. When considering the effect of age, education level was no longer associated with walking. Better perception of general safety (F=3.105, p=0.005) and fewer safety concerns (F=7.531, p=0.001) were positively associated with walking. Age and self-rated health status jointly contributed to the walking behaviour (p<0.001), explaining 16.2% of the variance. These findings may suggest future neighbourhood interventions for age-friendly communities in Winnipeg, and help to accommodate changes through addressing perceived neighbourhood safety concerns and facilitating increased physical activity among middle-aged and older adults.

No description available.

Maintaining balance is controlled by two different processes: feedforward and feedback control. Feed-forward control is used prior to performing voluntary movements whereas feedback control is used to correct for unexpected perturbations. Studies suggested that age-related changes in postural responses may contribute to increased risk of falls in older adults. To address whether Tai Chi training can induce improved patterns of feed-forward control, voluntary arm elevations during standing were performed. Compared to age-matched controls, smaller displacements of the center of pressure were found among older adults who practice Tai Chi. This may suggest adapted feed-forward control induced by training. To investigate feedback control, perturbations were applied while walking with various arm constraints. Context-dependent modulation in response amplitude was found with changing levels of postural threat in older adults, comparable to young adults. Delayed onset latencies and frequent inhibition of Soleus may suggest less effective balance strategies employed in older adults, and an increased risk of falling. / Rehabilitation Science

Zugl.: Karlsruhe, Universiẗat, Diss., 2007.

Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Western Australia, 2007.

Thesis (Ph. D.)--Oregon State University, 2008. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 93-94).

Thesis (M.S.)--University of Missouri-Columbia, 2007. / The entire dissertation/thesis text is included in the research.pdf file; the official abstract appears in the short.pdf file (which also appears in the research.pdf); a non-technical general description, or public abstract, appears in the public.pdf file. Title from title screen of research.pdf file (viewed on September 29, 2008) Includes bibliographical references.

Thesis (M.S.)--Oregon State University, 2010. / Printout. Includes bibliographical references. Also available on the World Wide Web.

Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Washington, 2004. / Vita. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 182-187).

Thesis (M.S.)--University of Wisconsin--Madison, 1973. / Typescript. eContent provider-neutral record in process. Description based on print version record. Includes bibliographical references (leaf [35]).