Final answer:
A common gait deviation that contributes to gait inefficiency in older adults is B. lack of hip extension, impacting stride and mobility. The aging process can weaken muscles and reduce joint mobility, correlating with gait issues. Maintaining strength and flexibility in the hips and legs is crucial for an efficient gait.
Step-by-step explanation:
A common gait deviation among older adults that contributes to gait inefficiency is lack of hip extension. This limitation can affect the fluidity and length of stride, leading to reduced walking speed and overall mobility. During the gait cycle, proper hip extension is necessary for propulsion forward, but with age, muscles may weaken and joint range of motion can diminish, leading to a compromised gait. Additionally, conditions such as arthritis can contribute to this deviation, further hindering mobility.
Moreover, older adults may experience degeneration of corticostriatal connections in the brain, affecting movement coordination. An adequate base of support is essential for balance. Therefore, deviations like a narrow step width could reduce stability, but it is not typically associated with gait inefficiency, unlike the lack of hip extension which directly impairs the walking pattern. It is important to promote exercises that improve strength and flexibility in the hips and legs to maintain a more efficient gait in elderly people.