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New Study Explains Why Elderly Struggle with Walking

14 Jun 2026, 01:17 pm
A recent study has uncovered a surprising reason why older adults often find walking difficult and tiring. Conducted jointly by Flinders and Canberra Universities, the findings were published in the journal Gait & Posture. The research indicates that as individuals age, their ankle mechanics and muscle compliance during the gait cycle adapt to prioritize safety. Essentially, the body focuses more on preventing falls than on maintaining smooth and efficient movement. This shift, however, results in a significant increase in energy expenditure. Professor Cody Lindsley of Flinders University suggests that exercise routines for older adults should therefore emphasize not only strength but also balance and coordination.
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