Age-Related Differences in Postural Balance Among Adults Aged 50–80 Years: An Observational Study

Global ageing has increased the population of people aged over 60 years, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Objective: To evaluate the postural control of adults aged 50–80 years and its relationship with age. Methodology: We conducted a cross-sectional observational study in Bogotá and nearby municipalities with 211 participants aged 50 to 80 years. We used the Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest) to measure balance and excluded individuals with mobility-related conditions. We used statistical tests to analyse data from the three age groups. Results: Significant differences in postural control were found between age groups; a progressive decline in balance was shown, especially in those over 70 years old. More women than men participated in the study; performance on tasks such as standing on one leg and mobility-related activities decreased with age. Conclusions: Balance performance was lower in older age groups, suggesting an age-related decline in postural control. The findings suggest that postural balance performance is lower in older age groups, especially after 70 years of age. These results support the importance of early preventive exercise programmes aimed at maintaining balance and reducing fall risk.