Neurocognitive Correlates of Postural Balance: Identifying Cognitive Predictors of Balance Control in Aging and Youth

This thesis examined the relationship between cognitive function and postural balance in older and young adults. Through two systematic reviews and meta-analyses, executive function, global cognition, and processing speed were identified as key cognitive domains associated with balance among older adults, particularly during dynamic tasks. Three empirical studies showed that inhibitory control and global cognition significantly predicted balance performance in older adults, especially in more complex tasks, but not in younger adults. The findings highlight that task complexity, rather than balance type, better explains cognitive involvement. This research supports integrating cognitive assessment into fall-risk screening to enhance the early identification of balance impairments.