Research in the Movement Science Laboratory focuses on sensory-motor integration that contributes to balance during dynamic, functional activities.  This research has direct implications for studying falls in clinical populations.  Of specific interest are older adults who fall and individuals with vestibular dysfunction.

           Studies in this laboratory examine visual and vestibular contributions to balance during walking.  Investigation of healthy older adults revealed a strong reliance on vision to maintain balance during walking.  While walking with their eyes closed, these older adults can no longer depend solely on vestibular information due to age-related vestibular deficits.  Current work in this laboratory is examining the visual-vestibular interaction in groups of healthy young and healthy older adults.  Measurement of eye, head and trunk movements will provide critical information regarding visual-vestibular control of balance during walking.  Results of these studies will provide the foundation for investigations of older adults who fall and individuals with vestibular dysfunction.