Gait speed as on indicator for vigorous elders in comprehensive geriatrics assessment

Abstract

Objective To analyze the health status in the elderly with fast gait speed, in order to provide the positive factor for maintenance and intervention of physical function in the elderly. Methods A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted. Information including demographic data, self-reported disease history, living habits, sensory motor ability was obtained by the standard questionnaire. Walking speed was measured over a distance of 6 meters. With the highest quartile of gait speed as the standard for fast gait speed in the elderly, the relationship of gait speed with health status and its influencing factors were further analyzed. Results The 1.39 m/s for gait speed was considered as the referenced cut-off value for fast gait speed. The elderly with fast gait speed were superior to those with normal gait speed in the somatic motor function and in the reduced prevalence of stroke. Logistic regression analysis showed that education, self-health status assessment, physical ability and life attitude were associated with the maintenance of fast gait speed. Conclusions Fast gait speed indicates that the health status of the elderly is better. The cut-off value for fast gait speed could be an easy and available indicator for vigorous elders in geriatrics comprehensive assessment. Key words: Health status; Gait