Ten-second one-legged stance as an indicator of survival in middle-aged and older adults

As we age, our balance diminishes, especially after the mid-50s, followed by an increased risk of falling. A group of researchers led by Brazilian scientist from Rio De Janeiro devise a ten-second one-legged stance (10-second OLS) to investigate its association with mortality. The study was published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.

The test is simple, standing on a flat platform and examining the ability to complete a 10-second one-legged stance on either foot.

The authors analysed data from 1702 individuals (68% men) aged 51–75 years between 2008 and 2020.  After adjusting for age, sex, body mass index and comorbidities, the researchers found that mortality was higher for individuals that could not complete the 10-second one-legged stance.

The authors acknowledged the limitations of uncontrolled variables such as a recent history of falls and physical activity. Nevertheless, the authors concluded that inability to complete a 10-second OLS test among middle-aged and elderly individuals was associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality.

Thus, it would be beneficial to include the 10-s OLS as part of routine physical examination in middle-aged and older adults.