Dynamics of Visuomotor Functions in the Aging Process: Analysis of Visual Path Speed

This study investigates age-related changes in visuomotor functions by analyzing gaze path velocity (pixels per second). The research included 50 participants aged 7 to 83 years, divided into four groups: children (7–14 years), young adults (19–39 years), middle-aged adults (45–58 years), and older adults (62–83 years). Eye movements were tracked during a visual scanning task. Statistical analyses, including one-way ANOVA, post-hoc Tukey HSD tests, and effect size calculations (η²), evaluated group differences.

Significant differences in gaze path velocity were found across groups. Children had an average velocity of 150.44 px/s, serving as a baseline. Young adults showed a substantial increase (365.97 px/s), and middle-aged adults reached the highest velocities (423.48 px/s), indicating peak visuomotor function. Older adults demonstrated a decline (256.15 px/s), reflecting age-related neuroplasticity reductions.

A nonlinear trajectory, modeled by a second-degree polynomial equation (R² = 0.89), peaked at age 46.3 years (Vmax = 406.03 px/s). This pattern reflects rapid growth in childhood, stabilization in middle age, and decline in later life.

The findings underscore the importance of age-specific interventions, optimized user interfaces, and neurodegenerative diagnostics. Future studies should expand on sample size and consider health and lifestyle factors to enhance understanding of visuomotor variability.