Study of Improving Gait Parameters When Using a Cane in "Light Touch" Condition in Elderly People With and Without Walking Difficulties

This project aims to study the effect of haptic sensory information delivered at the hand using a cane in "light touch" or "light support" condition on postural stability and spatial and temporal gait parameters of elderly subjects with and without walking difficulties

Inclusion Criteria:

• presence of gait disturbance or balance disorders defined by a geriatric assessment and / or a walking speed test

Exclusion Criteria:

• presence of acute problems or central or peripheral neurological severe sequelae
• occurrence of a recent fracture of the lower limbs or spinal fracture
• cognitive disorders
• presence of comorbidities: blindness, heart or severe respiratory failure, disabling osteoarthritis of the hands or legs, severe malnutrition, muscle atrophy, untreated orthostatic hypotension
• patients using a cane to a mechanical support