Detection of balance in the elderly under the influence of stress (DEPIE): A cross-sectional study protocol.

ABSTRACT: Age-related changes increase frailty and vulnerability to stress in older adults, and stress has been linked to poorer balance and fall risk. However, the mechanisms by which emotional stress may contribute to falls remain unclear. This study explores whether: 1) emotional stressors lead to neuromuscular changes that affect postural control in older adults; and 2) technology can assist in fall prevention by detecting increased risk. A cross-sectional, laboratory-based observational study is being conducted in a single session comparing 30 young adults (18-39 years) and 30 older adults (≥65 years), in which participants are exposed to emotional stressors (high-arousal images) and their immediate neuromuscular and balance responses are recorded. The first participant was enrolled on November

SUBMITTER: Membership of GITES 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12843555 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature