[Postural balance as a predictor of continued labour participation of men and women aged 65-69.]

Abstract

Study of the functional characteristics of working retirees provides an opportunity to gain a better understanding of the economic, socio-psychological and biological factors influencing work in late adulthood. The objective of the present research was to identify the inter-sex characteristics of subjective age (SA) and components of postural balance (PB) in older workers. A total of 30 women and 30 men within the age range of 65-69 who continued working after retirement were screened. SA of the subjects was determined by questioning them about how old they actually felt. For comprehensive analysis of PB components a Sensory Organization Test (SOT) and a Motor Control Test (MCT) on the computer posturographic complex «Smart Equitest Balance Manager» were performed. Comparative assessment of SA did not show any gender-related differences. At the same time, it was established that feeling significantly younger than their chronological age (6 years or more) in people of both sexes had a positive impact on extending working life beyond the age of 64. Analysis of the SOT and MCT indicators did not reveal any sex-related differences in maintaining static and static-dynamic balance, as well as in the sensory and sensory motor foundation of the subjects' postural control. Thus, we did not detect any sex-related differences in perception around ageing; PB components, physical activity and general performance, as well as in risks of cognitive changes in working people aged 65-69. Continued social and labour inclusion in retirement age directly depends on effective postural control both in men and women aged 64 and beyond.