Citation

Farrell MK, Rutt RA, Lusardi MM, Williams AK. J. Geriatr. Phys. Ther. 2011; 34(2): 57-63.

Affiliation

Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions, Provo, Utah. Pacific University, Hillsboro, Oregon. Sacred Heart University, Fairfield, Connecticut. University of Montana, Missoula, Montana.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, American Physical Therapy Association)

DOI

10.1519/JPT.0b013e318208c9b6

PMID

21937894

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: : Presence of dementia influences postural control and increases fall risk. The 7-item physical performance test (PPT) is a valid measure of balance in older adults; however, its validity has not been established in people with dementia. The purpose of this research was to establish predictive validity of the PPT for falls in people with dementia. METHODS: : Subjects with dementia (N=34, mean MMSE score 18.4 + 3.3) were tested with the PPT and then followed for four months for fall occurrences. DATA ANALYSIS: : A stepwise logistic regression (variables of age, previous history of a fall, and PPT score) determined predictors of a fall. Sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood ratios for each of the significant measures were calculated. RESULTS: : Twelve subjects (35%) reported at least one fall in the four months. History of a fall in the previous six months was the only significant predictor of a subsequent fall (p=.044), increasing the odds by almost five times. Calculated sensitivity and specificity for history of a fall were 58% and 77% respectively and positive and negative likelihood ratios were 2.52 and .58 respectively. DISCUSSION: : A fall in the previous six months was the strongest predictor of a fall in the subsequent four months in people with dementia. Score on the PPT was not a significant predictor of falls. Further research is warranted, however, since 8 of the 13 subjects falsely identified as a faller by their PPT score (false positives) had other strong indicators of postural control dysfunction.

Language: en