Comparing Common Physical Performance Tests for Evaluating Health in Older Adults (Preprint)

Abstract

Interdisciplinary evaluation of older adults’ healthcare is a priority in prevention of chronic health conditions and maintenance of daily functioning. While many studies evaluate different physical performance tests (PPTs) from a retrospective view in predicting mortality or cardiopulmonary health, it remains unclear which of the commonly used PPTs are most effective at evaluating the current health of older adults.

This study aims to determine the optimal PPT to evaluate overall physical capacity, performance, and other factors in older adults by comparing three commonly used tests.

The present study evaluates 53 older adults using three different PPTs (Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), 6-minute walk test (6MWT), and Incremental Shuttle Walk Test (ISWT)) and constructs multiple linear regression models with measures of physical activity, static balance, and fear of falling.

The models reveal that SPPB provides the most comprehensive value as indicated by a greater R2 value, and performance on the SPPB predicts physical activity and fear of falling. ISWT predicted body mass index (BMI) and fear of falling, whereas 6MWT predicted only fear of falling.

The results indicate the value of a multi-component, comprehensive test such as the SPPB in evaluating the health of the older adult. Additionally, comparison of the two field walking tests (ISWT and 6MWT) further distinguishes ISWT as more predictive of overall health in older adults. In comparing these commonly used PPTs, researchers in the field can determine the most optimal test to evaluate older adults in clinical and research settings.