What factors contribute to impaired coordination in the elderly?

Impaired coordination in the elderly can be significantly influenced by visual impairments and medication side effects. As individuals age, they often experience a decline in vision due to conditions such as cataracts or glaucoma, which can affect depth perception and spatial awareness. This impairment can contribute to a higher risk of falls and difficulties in performing coordinated movements.

Additionally, many elderly individuals take multiple medications to manage chronic conditions. Some of these medications can have side effects that impact coordination, such as dizziness, drowsiness, or impaired balance. This combination of visual challenges and the effects of medications makes coordination more difficult for older adults, highlighting the relevance of these factors in assessing their overall mobility and safety.

In contrast, increased muscle mass is generally associated with improved strength and coordination, while being free from medication typically would not imply a risk for coordination issues. A diet high in vitamins, while beneficial for overall health, does not directly correlate with coordination capabilities in the same manner as visual impairments or the impacts of medication.