Influence of step-surface visual properties on confidence, anxiety, dynamic stability, and gaze behaviour in young and older adults

Step-surface visual properties are often associated with stair falls. However, evidence for decorating stairs typically concerns the application of step-edge highlighters rather than entire step-surface. Here we examine influence step-surface on descent safety, a view to generating preliminary safe décor. Fourteen young (YA: 23.1 ± 3.7 years), 13 higher (HAOA: 67 3.5) and 14 lower (LAOA: 73.4 5.7) ability older adults descended seven-step staircase. Older were stratified based physiological/cognitive function. décor patterns assessed were: Black white (Busy); fine grey (Plain); striped multicolour (Striped); each implemented with/without black edge-highlighters (5.5 cm width) totalling six conditions. Participants three times per condition. Confidence was prior to, anxiety following, first in 3D kinematics (Vicon) quantified speed, margin stability, foot clearances respect step-edges. Eye tracking (Pupil-labs) recorded gaze. Data from phases (entry, middle, exit) analysed. Linear mixed-effects models within-subject effects (×3) edge (×2), between-subject age (×3), interactions between terms (α = p < .05) . Décor : Plain reduced all ages abilities ( .032, effect size: g av 0.3), increased YA HAOA middle phase .001, 0.53), thus improving safety. In contrast, LAOA exhibited no change clearance Patterned slowed (Busy: 0.2), margins stability 0.41; Striped: gav 0.25) steps looked ahead .053, 0.25; .039, 0.28) abilities. This reflects cautious descent, likely due more challenging conditions visually extracting information about spatial characteristics useful guide descent. Edge Step-edge confidence 0.53) 0.45) décor, whilst removing them .01, 0.26) .003, 0.25). also 0.14), showed adaptation. No or suggests an inability adapt properties. step surfaces can lead demanding negotiation perspective steps. plain improves We therefore suggest is preferable use stairs. • without led Safer shown highlighters. Lower did not always promotes safer