Article

Physical performance measures predict health and function in older populations.
Walking speed in particular has consistently predicted morbidity and mortality.
However, single brief walking measures may not reflect a person's typical
ability. Using a system that unobtrusively and continuously measures walking
activity in a person's home we examined walking speed metrics and their relation
to function. In 76 persons living independently (mean age, 86) we measured every
instance of walking past a line of passive infra-red motion sensors placed
strategically in their home during a four-week period surrounding their annual
clinical evaluation. Walking speeds and the variance in these measures were
calculated and compared to conventional measures of gait, motor function and
cognition. Median number of walks per day was 18+/-15. Overall mean walking speed
was 61+/-17 cm/s. Characteristic fast walking speed was 96 cm/s. Men walked as
frequently and fast as women. Those using a walking aid walked significantly
slower and with greater variability. Morning speeds were significantly faster
than afternoon/evening speeds. In-home walking speeds were significantly
associated with several neuropsychological tests as well as tests of motor
performance. Unobtrusive home walking assessments are ecologically valid measures
of walking function. They provide previously unattainable metrics (periodicity,
variability, range of minimum and maximum speeds) of everyday motor function.
CI - Published by Elsevier B.V.

Langue : ANGLAIS