In our population-based study diabetes mellitus was associated with worse Global Gait, which was mostly reflected in Pace and Tandem. These associations were partly driven by other cardiovascular risk factors, emphasizing the importance of optimal control of cardiovascular risk factor profiles in patients with diabetes.

Individuals with restless legs syndrome experienced significantly more impairment in activities of daily function than persons without restless legs. This seemed to be (partly) mediated by poor sleep quality and depressive symptoms. No association was found with objectively assessed physical functioning.

In a community-dwelling population, consuming >1 cup of coffee and 1-3 glasses of alcohol relate to better gait, whereas smoking is related to worse gait. Further studies are required to evaluate whether interventions targeting substance consumption may aid to prevent or reduce gait deterioration and thereby related health problems.