Journal of geriatric physical therapy
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J Geriatr Phys Ther · Jul 2020
Modified 30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test: Reliability and Validity in Older Adults Unable to Complete Traditional Sit-to-Stand Testing.
Sit-to-stand tests measure a clinically relevant function and are widely used in older adult populations. The modified 30-second sit-to-stand test (m30STS) overcomes the floor effect of other sit-to-stand tests observed in physically challenged older adults. The purpose of this study was to examine interrater and test-retest intrarater reliability for the m30STS for older adults. In addition, convergent validity of the m30STS, as well as responsiveness to change, was examined in older adults undergoing rehabilitation. ⋯ The m30STS is a reliable, feasible tool for use in a general geriatric population with a lower level of function. The m30STS demonstrated concurrent validity with the Berg Balance Scale and modified Barthel Index but not with knee extensor strength to body weight ratio. One repetition of the m30STS was established as the MDC90 as change beyond error.
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J Geriatr Phys Ther · Oct 2019
Comparative StudyBalance and Functional Outcomes for Older Community-Dwelling Adults Who Practice Tai Chi and Those Who Do Not: A Comparative Study.
A growing body of literature substantiates that Tai Chi is a form of exercise that may help older adults increase strength, improve balance, lower fall rates, and experience less fear of falling. Few studies, however, offer controlled experimental design and simultaneously investigate multiple factors known to contribute to fall risk. The purpose of this study was to compare performance on measures relating to fall risk (strength, balance, functional mobility, and fear of falling) in older community-dwelling adults who participated in a community-based Tai Chi program with a control group of their peers who had no Tai Chi training over the same time period. ⋯ Older adults' participation in a community-based Tai Chi program may lead to improvement in strength, mobility, and confidence in performing functional tasks. Incorporation of elements of Tai Chi into therapy programs for older adults at risk for fall and referral to community-based Tai Chi programs may be viable options in the continuum of health-related care for older adults.
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J Geriatr Phys Ther · Oct 2019
Observational StudyAn Investigation of the Predictors of Comfortable and Fast Gait Speed in Community-Dwelling Older Adults.
To identify the unique predictors of comfortable and fast gait speed in community-dwelling older adults using measures of physical performance (eg, lower extremity strength and balance), self-reported balance confidence, and global cognitive function. ⋯ Gait speed is an important indicator for many outcomes such as fall risk, mortality, and functional status. Understanding that key variables of strength and balance comprise a large portion of gait speed allows clinicians to better direct their care and optimize rehabilitation outcomes. This study specifically used functional measures of strength and balance that can be easily implemented in the clinical setting.
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J Geriatr Phys Ther · Jul 2019
Multicenter StudyAssessment of Mobility in Older People Hospitalized for Medical Illness Using the de Morton Mobility Index and Cumulated Ambulation Score-Validity and Minimal Clinical Important Difference.
Older adults acutely hospitalized for medical illness typically have comorbidity and disability, and in-hospital physical inactivity greatly increases the likelihood of developing new disability. Thus, assessment of the patients' mobility status is crucial for planning and carrying out targeted interventions that ensure mobilization during hospital admission. The aim of this study was to determine convergent validity, known group validity, floor and ceiling effects, and anchor-based minimal clinically important difference (MCID) of the more time-consuming de Morton Mobility Index (DEMMI) and the less time-consuming Cumulated Ambulation Score (CAS) in older adults acutely hospitalized for medical illness. ⋯ These data show that the DEMMI is valid and responsive to changes in mobility and can be considered to have the required properties for measuring mobility in older adults who are hospitalized in medical and geriatric wards. In contrast, the CAS appears to be appropriate to identify whether a patient is independently mobile or needs assistance, while the measure is less suitable for measuring improvements in mobility.
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J Geriatr Phys Ther · Jul 2019
The Association Between Body Adiposity Measures, Postural Balance, Fear of Falling, and Fall Risk in Older Community-Dwelling Women.
Recent investigations demonstrate an association between obesity and the propensity of older adults to fall. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between body adiposity measures, postural balance, fear of falling, and risk of falls in older women. ⋯ In summary, adiposity measures are associated with risk of falls in older women, which might be mediated by reduced postural balance and increased fear of falling. Among these indices, WC, an easy and low-cost assessment, demonstrated the strongest association with falls-related outcomes.