Postural balance and physical activity in daily life (PADL) in physically independent older adults with different levels of aerobic exercise capacity

Balance impairs with aging and may cause mobility limitations and functional decline. We aimed to evaluate postural balance and PADL in physically independent older adults with different levels of exercise capacity. One hundred fifty seven physically independent individuals, aged 60 years or older were evaluated. Postural balance assessment was performed during one-legged stance test using a force-platform and maximum exercise capacity with the incremental shuttle walking test (ISWT). PADL was assessed subjectively by the modified Baecke questionnaire and objectively using a pedometer. Based on the performance achieved in the ISWT, according to the percentage of the predicted value, the older adults were separated into 3 groups: low performance group (LP group, ISWT < 80% predicted, n = 32, 19 women), normal performance group (NP group, 80 ≤ ISWT ≤ 100% predicted, n = 30, 22 women) and high performance group (HP group, ISWT > 100% predicted, n = 95, 67 women). The HP group showed better postural balance when compared to LP groups (p < 0.001) and also higher levels of PADL measured with pedometer (p < 0.001). There was a modest correlation (r = 0.45) between exercise capacity and PADL in the LP group and a weak correlation between exercise capacity and balance (r = −28) in the HP group. Physically independent older adults with more preserved exercise capacity have better postural balance and higher levels of PADL in comparison to those older adults who show a poorer condition in terms of exercise capacity.