Abstract
Thomas JI, Lane JV. A pilot study to explore the predictive validity of 4 measures
of falls risk in frail elderly patients.
Objectives
To test the hypothesis that scores on 4 falls risk measures will differ significantly
in patients reporting recurrent falls compared with those who do not; and to explore
the validity of each measure to predict such falls status.
Design
A convenience sample was tested to establish the sensitivity and specificity of the
Functional Reach Test, Timed Up & Go test, one-leg stance test (OLST), and balance
subsection of the Performance Oriented Mobility Assessment (B-POMA). A 12-month retrospective
falls history was used to identify recurrent fallers.
Setting
A day hospital for the elderly.
Participants
Convenience sample of 30 day hospital patients. The inclusion criteria were: ability
to rise from a chair and walk 6m; no severe cognitive impairment or blindness; age
65 years or older.
Interventions
Not applicable.
Main Outcome Measures
Scores on the 4 tests and retrospective falls histories.
Results
Scores on the B-POMA and OLST showed significant differences between fallers and nonfallers
(P<.05). An OLST time of 1.02 seconds or less (odds ratio [OR]=15.2; 95% confidence
interval [CI], 1.72–133.95) and B-POMA score of 11 or less (OR=18.5; 95% CI, 2.05–167.79)
were predictive of day hospital patients having a history of recurrent falls.
Conclusions
OLST and B-POMA both have potential as screening tools for risk of falls, but this
observation requires confirmation in a prospective study.
Key Words
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© 2005 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine and the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
