Slow walking

USING a simple test of gait speed, researchers were able to measure the ageing process. Not only were slower walkers’ bodies ageing more quickly — their faces looked older and they had smaller brains. The international team said the findings were an “amazing surprise”. Doctors often measure gait speed to gauge overall health, particularly in the over-65s, because it is a good indicator of muscle strength, lung function, balance, spine strength and eyesight.