Speed of a person’s walk can predict their lifespan

The study involved 120 older adults who lived independently. Their condition was monitored for 10 to 17 years after the initial testing. The researchers analyzed the participants’ static balance (postural sway) and dynamic balance (step execution speed).

Every additional 100 milliseconds (0.1 seconds) spent initiating a step during dual tasking (when a person is simultaneously performing a cognitive task) increased the risk of mortality by 28% (survival risk ratio ≈ 1.28). In other words, those who needed a little more time to start moving when distracted were more likely to die after years of observation. This suggests that slowing down the initiation of a step may reflect a decrease in overall neurological and physiological stability with age.

The participants were tested in two modes. In single-player mode, it was necessary to take a step after the touch signal as quickly as possible. In the dual task mode, the same step had to be performed simultaneously with the modified Stroop test: to name the ink color used to print the words, if it did not match the meaning of the word.

The researchers explain that the speed of nerve impulse conduction and the perception of sensory signals remain unchanged in both modes. This suggests that the delay in performing a step under mental stress is primarily due to limitations in the central nervous system, such as the amount of attention required to simultaneously handle two tasks. In older individuals with a less favorable survival prognosis, more limited attention is allocated to movement during distraction, resulting in a noticeable slowdown in motor response.

Static balance indicators (for example, an increase in the speed of front-to-back rocking while standing with eyes closed) were also associated with the risk of mortality, but they predicted it less accurately than dynamic step tests.

A slower step is often a sign of a gradual decline in mobility. This can lead to a chain of consequences: reduced physical activity, general deconditioning, and increased systemic health risks.

However, the random step test is easy to perform and does not require a highly skilled technician. It can be included in a standard clinical assessment, as it provides an accessible way to assess a patient’s functional resilience.

It is also important that the step speed is a variable indicator. Previous clinical trials have shown that it can be improved with special balance and stability training. This means that such a test not only helps predict risks, but also allows you to identify people who will benefit from rehabilitation programs to maintain mobility — and, potentially, to prolong an active and healthy life.

The authors of the study believe that incorporating dual-task tests into routine clinical practice can significantly improve survival predictions and help to implement timely measures to maintain cognitive and motor health.