Lower-Limb Muscle Strength and Major Performance Tests in Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Abstract

Aims To present reference values, clinically significant changes (CSC), and prediction equations of lower-limb muscle strength (LMS) and physical performance (PP) in community-dwelling older adults in a rural area. Methods Quadriceps muscle and toe grip strength were measured as LMS. Maximal gait speed, Timed-Up and Go test, one-legged stand test, and four-square step test were measured as PP. Overall and age-specific reference values for both sexes were presented. CSC was calculated using a distribution-based approach. We conducted multivariate regression analyses to make prediction equations for each variable. The prediction error was checked using 10-fold cross-validation. Results Three-hundred ninety-two participants (male, n = 116; female, n = 276) were included. LMS was maintained with age, while PS declined linearly. The prediction equations were significant, but the prediction error was high. Conclusions Reference values and CSC help evaluate the deterioration of LMS and PP and the effectiveness of an intervention on these outcomes.