Perceptual-Postural Correlation of Visual Dependence in Healthy Adults Across Age Groups

Abstract

Background: Visual dependence is a term to describe over reliance on vision than other sensory systems on orientation and balance. Perceptual and postural visual dependence have been reported in many articles but usually discussed in separate studies and focused on certain age groups.Objective: The aims of this study are twofold. The first investigates the correlation of perceptual and postural visual dependence in healthy adults across age groups. The second examines the correlation between age and visual dependence at perceptual and postural levels respectively.Methods: Forty healthy adults were recruited and assessed for levels of perceptual and postural visual dependence. The former was distinguished through subjective visual vertical (SVV) tilt by Rod and Disc test; the latter was measured by sway acceleration in six sensory conditions with various visual and proprioceptive inputs. Results:The results showed moderate and positive correlation between the values of SVV tilt and sway acceleration with the subject standing on foam with a visual disturbance applied. A low and positive correlation was also observed between age and the value of SVV tilt and with sway acceleration, where both visual and proprioceptive inputs were altered.Conclusion: These findings suggest perceptual visual dependence was significantly increased with postural visual dependence in healthy adults across age groups, particularly when performing a challenging balance task. Greater visual dependence at both perceptual and postural levels with increasing age was also found.