The Optimal Cut-Off Score of the Dynamic Balance Test for Predict Risk of Falls in Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Authors

  • Arunrat Srithawong Department of Physical Therapy, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Phayao, 56000
  • Winut Duangsanjun Adult and Gerontological Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Vongchavalitkul University, Nakhon Ratchasima Province 30000
  • Maitip Sittitan Physical Therapy Unit, Maechan hospital, Maechan district, Chiangrai province, Thailand 57110
  • Puttipong Poncumhak Department of Physical Therapy, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Phayao, 56000

Keywords:

Elderly; Falls; balance control; community; Physical Therapy

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to explore optimal cut-off score of the Timed Up and Go test (TUGT) for implement to predict risk of falls in elders aged 60 – 74 and 75 year old or above.

Method: The volunteer subjects were 120 elders aged 60 years and above and divided into two groups; 60-74 and 75 years and above. All subjects were asked to subjective and objective examination and interview the history of falling previous 6 months. After that, they were asked to performed TUGT.

Results: In both groups, the falling subjects required significantly more time to complete the test than those in non-faller group (p = 0.001). The group of 60 – 74 years old, showed the optimal cut off score to predict risk of falls is 10.74 seconds (sensitivity = 90.00% and specificity = 81.82%). In addition, the group of 75 years old or above showed the optimal cut off score 14.58 seconds (sensitivity = 97.14% and specificity = 82.61%)

Conclusion: This study indicated that the group of 60-74 years old who had a time to complete TUGT of 10.74 seconds or more had a higher risk of falling. In the group of 75 years or older, it was found that if the TUGT time of 14.58 seconds or more indicated a risk of falling.

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Published

2018-06-24

How to Cite

1.
Srithawong A, Duangsanjun W, Sittitan M, Poncumhak P. The Optimal Cut-Off Score of the Dynamic Balance Test for Predict Risk of Falls in Community-Dwelling Older Adults. SRIMEDJ [Internet]. 2018 Jun. 24 [cited 2024 Dec. 24];33(4):334-8. Available from: https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/130294

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Original Articles