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Published on: 4/28/2025

What Are the Primary Causes of Difficulty Walking in the Elderly?

Walking difficulties in older adults typically arise from problems with muscles, joints, balance, or brain function. Common causes include conditions like arthritis, stroke, Parkinson's disease, and inner ear disorders that affect balance.

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Explanation

Several factors can cause walking difficulties in older adults. First, muscles and joints naturally weaken and stiffen with age. Many older adults develop arthritis, which causes pain and restricts movement. Second, neurological conditions like stroke or Parkinson's disease can impair brain-body communication, making walking more challenging. Third, balance problems frequently occur in older age. Changes in inner ear function and declining vision can make it harder to maintain stability and see obstacles. Dizziness—often caused by blood pressure changes or inner ear disorders—can lead to unsteady gait and falls. Finally, these issues often occur simultaneously, increasing the risk of mobility problems. Since each condition significantly impacts mobility and quality of life, proper diagnosis and treatment are essential.

(References)

  • Pirker W, Katzenschlager R. Gait disorders in adults and the elderly : A clinical guide. Wien Klin Wochenschr. 2017 Feb;129(3-4):81-95. doi: 10.1007/s00508-016-1096-4. Epub 2016 Oct 21. PMID: 27770207; PMCID: PMC5318488.

  • Updated 2023 Jun 4]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560761/
  • Ataullah AHM, De Jesus O. Gait Disturbances. [Updated 2024 Apr 20]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560610/

  • Jahn K, Kressig RW, Bridenbaugh SA, Brandt T, Schniepp R. Dizziness and Unstable Gait in Old Age: Etiology, Diagnosis and Treatment. Dtsch Arztebl Int. 2015 Jun 5;112(23):387-93. doi: 10.3238/arztebl.2015.0387. PMID: 26157011; PMCID: PMC4498008.

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