Published on: 5/26/2025
Sudden inability to walk in older adults can be caused by events like a stroke, a fall with injury, or worsening balance problems. These events may happen quickly and need fast medical attention.
There are many reasons why an elderly person might suddenly not be able to walk. One common cause is a stroke, which happens when blood flow to a part of the brain is disrupted. This can make one side of the body weak or numb and make it hard to walk. Another cause is a fall. When an older patient falls, they may injur their leg or pelvis and this makes walking painful or impossible. Balance disorders are also important; as people get older, their inner sense of balance can get worse, and a small change can lead to a big loss of balance. In any of these cases, it is very important to see a doctor emergently to find out why the problem happened and to start treatment. Fast care can help improve recovery.
(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.
Brach JS, Vanswearingen JM. Interventions to Improve Walking in Older Adults. Curr Transl Geriatr Exp Gerontol Rep. 2013 Dec;2(4):10.1007/s13670-013-0059-0. doi: 10.1007/s13670-013-0059-0. PMID: 24319641; PMCID: PMC3851025.
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