title: A model-based approach to attention and sensory integration in postural control of older adults.
abstract: We conducted a dual-task experiment that involved information processing (IP) tasks concurrent with postural perturbations to explore the interaction between attention and sensory integration in postural control in young and older adults. Data were fit to a postural control model incorporating sensory integration and the influence of attention. This model hypothesizes that the cognitive processing and integration of sensory inputs for balance requires time, and that attention influences this processing time, as well as sensory selection by facilitating specific sensory channels. Differences in the time delay of the postural control model were found for age and IP task, suggesting enhanced vulnerability of balance processes in older adults to interference from interfering cognitive IP tasks.
authors.affiliation: Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA. arash@engr.pitt.edu
authors.forename: Arash
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Mahboobin
authors.forename: Patrick
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Loughlin
authors.forename: Mark
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Redfern
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology*; D001288:Attention / Q000502:physiology*; D003198:Computer Simulation; D005246:Feedback / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008954:Models, Biological; D004856:Postural Balance / Q000502:physiology*; D011187:Posture / Q000502:physiology*; D011434:Proprioception / Q000502:physiology*; D012677:Sensation / Q000502:physiology*