As we age, we tend to walk more slowly. By the time we are 80, our gait can change dramatically. But, not all gait changes are part of normal aging, and we should see a physician to determine whether there is a treatment. We should do whatever possible to ensure good balance and prevent falls.
About one in three people walk differently in their 70’s , often shuffling. The prevalence of shuffling increases to more than 60 percent in adults over 80. Shuffling is not a sign of normal aging. It could indicate an underlying condition.
Lisa Sanders, M.D., writes for the New York Times about one man whose walking pace slowed in his early 70’s. He shuffled his feet and feared losing his balance as he walked. Blood tests, MRIs of the spine, EMGs to study muscles and nerves, and other scans, did not explain why.
No treatment appeared to work. His legs felt heavy and strange. Over time, he took small steps and could no longer walk for more than a few minutes. He felt as if his legs were tying him down. Surgery to address compression of the spinal cord and widen his stenotic bones was of no help.
A neurologist prescribed tests for Parkinson’s and, without much indication, tried to treat him for the disease. The treatment did not help. Even so, the man’s right arm and leg were stiff, suggesting Parkinson’s.
The issue, evident on his brain MRIs, was that his brain ventricles had enlarged as a result of an excess of fluid. His brain could not absorb the fluid, which put more pressure on his brain and brain tissue. The man was diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus. Removal of the excess brain fluid restored his ability to move his legs with facility and walk long distances.
Normal pressure hydrocephalus affects around one in 20 older adults and is more prevalent among people over 80. People often confuse it with Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. It affects your gait. And, it can cause dementia. But, if diagnosed and treated, the symptoms, including the feeling of having heavy legs, can go away.
Here’s more from Just Care:
- Five exercises to improve balance for safety and health
- Medicare covers physical, speech and occupational therapy
- Falls are primary cause of harm and death for people over 65
- The benefits of walking barefoot at home
- Caregiving: Keeping Parents Healthy – Water, Walking, Watch out for Delirium
