Balance and motor functioning in subjects with different stages of cognitive disorders.

Abstract Background Approximately 30% of the elderly population is falling each year, resulting in a major health problem. Cognitive decline is an independent risk factor for fall. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a cognitive decline that is higher than expected in the subjects' age but does not affect the activities of daily living Objective In the study, vestibulo-ocular reflexes, dynamic visual acuities and postural balances of subjects with mild cognitive impairment were evaluated and compared with the healthy control group. Methods For this purpose, 10 subjects with mild cognitive impairment and 10 healthy subjects from the same age group were included in the study. After the hearing test was applied to the subjects, videonistagmography, dynamic visual acuity and computerized dynamic posturography measurements were performed. Results Computerized Dynamic Posturography VEST parameter, SOT (Sensory Organization Test) 2, SOT 3, SOT 6 and Composite Balance Scores were significantly lower in the MCI group. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of videonistagmographic measurements. Dynamic Visual Acuity Perception Time Test scores of the subjects with mild cognitive impairment were significantly longer compared to the control group (p  Conclusion As a result of the study, it was concluded that subjects with mild cognitive impairment were more prone to fall compared to control group and that these subjects should be included in fall prevention rehabilitation programs.