Independent Living and Psychomotor Performance

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
While the majority of seniors live outside of institutions, many live in seniors apartment buildings rather than in single family dwellings. MacPherson (1983) suggested that not maintaining an independent living style may have some negative consequences for seniors. The question asked was whether differences in lifestyle arising from the nature of the residence were associated with measures of psychomotor performance. Some 36 seniors, average age approximately 68 yrs., all in good health, completed 800 responses on a discrete pursuit tracking task which emphasized response speed and accuracy. Significant differences in performance were noted for both RT and speed of movement. Overall, seniors living independently, either in urban or rural areas, responded faster than seniors living in seniors apartment buildings. The data do not imply a causal relationship, however, they do suggest that psychomotor variables are relevant factors to consider in regard to differing living styles.