Age-Related Changes in Motor Estimation Ability

Background/Objectives: This study examined age-related changes in motor estimation ability among middle-aged and older adults by conducting physical fitness and mobility dysfunction assessments. Methods Participants performed two motor tasks: the functional reach (FR) test and the two-step test. Each task included an actual task in which participants executed the movement with maximum effort and a perceptual task in which they estimated the distance they had reached. The difference between the actual and perceived stability limits (DAP) was calculated to assess motor estimation ability. A two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance was conducted, with age (30, 40, 50, 60, 70, and 80 years) and sex (male and female) as within-participant factors. Results The actual reach distances were significantly greater for 30, 40, 50, and 60 years than for 70 years, and males had greater reach distances than females. In both tests, a significant positive correlation was observed between the maximal value and the DAP. For the FR test, the DAP was significantly greater for 30 and 40 years than for 70 years, and females tended to have greater DAP than males. In the two-step test, 50 years exhibited a greater DAP tendency than 70 and 80 years. Conclusion Motor estimation ability declines at approximately 60–70 years of age and is influenced by sex and motor function capacity. Significance/Implications: Preventive practices should be promoted among individuals under the age of 60 years before significant declines in motor estimation ability begin to occur.