Why do old people stoop?

Measurements of balance and of stooping were made in 38 healthy and active volunteers of various ages, and in 16 patients who had suffered falls and subsequent limitations of mobility. All subjects were able to stand unsupported for 30 seconds. Balance function as measured sensitively on a Kistler force plate showed a tendency to progressive impairment with increasing age. No difference was detected in balance between those who had fallen and between normal subjects of the same age. No relationship was observed between the measurements of stooping and age or the occurrence of a fall. Stooping does not occur as an adaptation to the minor degrees of balance impairment demonstrated in these subjects.