Are the spatiotemporal gait parameters at different walking speeds capable of predicting variations in cognitive status by the mini-mental state examination?

Abstract

Background Several studies have reported the association between cognition and gait; however, most are limited to investigating gait in just one speed, usually the self-selected one, and commonly, only the general score of cognitive tests is used. Aims Investigate the relationship between the spatiotemporal gait parameters at different speeds (self-selected and fast walking speeds) and cognitive status in older adults. Methods Cross-sectional study. Two hundred and ninety-five older adults (70.9 ± 7.2 years; 82.3% women) were evaluated according to cognitive status (Mini-Mental State Examination, MMSE) and spatiotemporal gait parameters. Results Data analysis indicates that the spatiotemporal gait parameters (stride length, step time, and single support time) were able to predict cognitive status, assessed by the MMSE general score and its subdomain (temporal and spatial orientation) at both walking speeds. Conclusions The spatiotemporal gait parameters were associated with cognitive status, assessed by the MMSE (general score and temporal and spatial orientation), regardless of the walking conditions. The model’s variance was significant and with a large effect size. Stride length and step time were identified as the variables with the best explanatory factors. Therefore, it is concluded that greater cognitive performance is associated with longer stride lengths and faster step times.