RELIABILITY OF TEN NEW TESTS FOR ASSESSING FUNCTIONAL PERFORMANCE AND STRENGTH IN OLDER ADULTS 61

Abstract

Strength gains in older adults have been documented using traditional(weights and machines) and non-traditional (elastic bands) resistance training modes. However, the extent to which these reported training-specific strength gains carryover to functional tasks is unknown. To gain insight into this question four functional tasks were developed and tested for reliability. Additionally, the reliabilities of six strength tests using a non-traditional form of resistance (i.e. elastic bands) were examined. Twenty nine community dwelling older adults age 65 or over (mean age=76) were tested on two days separated by one week. Time of day and order of testing was the same. Functional tasks were performed first in the following order: street cross-bus entry test, bed to chair to bed transfer test, stair climb test and car exit test. Three trials of each task were performed and time required to complete the task was averaged. Six strength tests were then performed in the following order: wall squat, hip flexion, ankle dorsiflexion, seated row, biceps curl, and triceps extension. Bands offering different resistances were used for testing. Strength was based on the maximal number of repetitions (less than 20) performed. Reliabilities and differences in measures between test days were determined using interclass correlations and paired t-tests, respectively. The interclass correlations for the functional tasks were high(r2=.87 to.98). The reliability of the strength tests ranged from low to high (r2=.48 to.93), with the wall squat yielding the highest value. Measures varied significantly (p<.05) between test days for all of the functional tasks and in four of the six strength tests. However, the differences indicate improvements in all of the tests, thus suggesting subject familiarization. In conclusion, the functional tasks developed and the wall squat strength test are reliable. With further subject familiarization these tests may be used to assess functional performance and strength in older adults.