Gait speed of people aged 65 years or more gives a clue on one’s well-being and longevity, a new research from the University of Pittsburgh published in the American Medical Association journal reveals.
Analyzing data from nine different studies involving more than 34,000 elderly patients, the researchers sought to correlate walking speed with the health and function of older people and predict their survival rates. The researchers found that faster walking speeds translate to a longer life in both sexes, with the survival rates increasing for fast-walkers beyond 75 years.
Walking clearly reflects the condition of one’s body as it requires timing and energy as well as mental and cardiovascular support; consequently, slowing down clearly shows aging and declining health. The study also says that gait speed as an indicator of good health compares well with predictions based on age, sex, chronic conditions and lifestyle.
Picture credit : Malingering
Loading ...
Follow Us On Twitter
Post a Comment