Investigation of Biomechanical Characteristics of Older Adults: Effects of Gender and Driving Status

The purpose of this study was to investigate the biomechanical differences in the ability to generate force between older drivers and non-drivers. The study examined differences in ankle, hip and upper body torque generation between gender and driving groups with respect to driving posture. Twenty-four older adults aged 65 years and older were recruited for participation in this study. Strength and reaction time data were collected using a Biodex Dynamometer. The data was analyzed to report peak torque generation at the ankle, hip, and steering wheel along with peak reaction times and head-neck flexibility. The results indicated a significant decrease in peak torque measurements, and increase in the reaction time in non-drivers as compared to drivers. Gender differences were found in the hip and upper body torque, with females at a lower strength level than males. No significant differences were found between gender and driving status for the head neck flexibility. Language: en