Age & Sex Difference in Motor Performance
DESCRIPTION
Advanced aging in males and females is accompanied by marked declines in motor performance, including reactions in muscle strength, power and increased fatigability of limb muscles. These changes begin as early as midlife and accelerate from approximately 65 years of age. High-level athletic performance, which can serve as a proxy for the trajectory of optimal human biological function during advanced aging, indicates that while males are faster, stronger and more powerful than females, the relative age-related decline in performance is greater for females than males after approximately 50 years of age. This webinar highlights key neural and muscular mechanisms for these age-related reductions in motor performance in males and females and examines the differential role of sex hormones across the lifespan.
INSTRUCTOR (click on the name below to read faculty bio)
Sandra K. Hunter, PhD
LEARNER OUTCOMES
Upon completion of this webinar, participants will be able to:
- Define age-related changes that affect limb motor function in males and females
- Describe how sex hormones may contribute to strength loss with aging in adults
SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION
Participants will watch the on-demand recording in its entirety and complete an assessment and feedback module in the Academy Learning Portal. You will have three months from the date of purchase to complete and review the course material. You will receive a reminder email two weeks before the expiration date.
AUDIENCE
Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapy Assistants, Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants and Speech-Language Pathologists
CONTINUING EDUCATION
Occupational Therapists:
The Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is an AOTA Approved Provider of professional development. Course approval ID#15217. This distance learning independent webinar is offered at 1.0 contact hours, 0.10 CEUs [introductory level, foundational knowledge]. The assignment of AOTA CEUs does not imply endorsement of specific course content, products, or clinical procedures by AOTA.
Physical Therapists: This online course has been approved by the Illinois Physical Therapy Board for 1.0 Contact Hours. Approval #216-000069
The Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is recognized by California and the New York State Education Department's State Board for Physical Therapy as an approved provider of physical therapy and physical therapist assistant continuing education for 1.0 Contact Hours on 1/9/2026.
Many states accept continuing education contact hours recognized in other states, enabling professionals to use these hours to meet their licensing or certification requirements. Please consult your state regulations to see if this meets CEU requirements for your license.
Speech-Language Pathologists: 
Disclosures:
Course Directors and Planning Committee Members:
Julie Lenkiewicz, MS, CCC-SLP Has nothing to disclose.
Melissa Kolski, PT, OCS, Dip MDT Has nothing to disclose.
Leslie Marriott, OTR/L Has nothing to disclose.
Selah Bustamante, MSN, RN, CRRN Has nothing to disclose.
Melissa Legreid, MSN, RN, CRRN, NPD-BC Has nothing to disclose.
Speakers, Moderators and Panelists:
Sandra K. Hunter, PhD Has nothing to disclose.
ACADEMY POLICIES
For a complete list of Academy policies and technology requirements, click here.
