@article{ref1,
title="Minimum detectable change of the Berg Balance Scale and dynamic gait index in older persons at risk for falling",
journal="Journal of geriatric physical therapy",
year="2011",
author="Romero, Sergio and Bishop, Mark D. and Velozo, Craig A. and Light, Kathye",
volume="34",
number="3",
pages="131-137",
abstract="BACKGROUND: : The Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and the Dynamic Gait Index (DGI) are often the central components of the physical therapy evaluation to identify older adults at risk of falling. PURPOSE: : The purpose of this study was to use the standard error of measurement to investigate the minimal detectable change associated with these clinical instruments. METHODS: : A sample of 42 community dwellers (older than 65 years) with a history of falls or near falls was evaluated with the BBS and DGI. Evaluations were videotaped and later rescored by 2 experienced physical therapists. RESULTS: : The mean initial BBS was 39 points (SD = 8.9, range 17-53). Rescored mean value was 40 points (SD = 8.8, range 19-55). The DGI mean initial value was 12.9 (SD = 4.5, range 3-21), and the rescored mean was 12.7 (SD = 4.6, range 4-22). MDC95% values were 6.5 BBS and 2.9 DGI points, respectively. CONCLUSION: : These results suggest that a change of 6.5 point in the BBS and 2.9 points in the DGI is necessary to be 95% confident that genuine change in function has occurred between 2 assessments. This information is important for assessing and monitoring progress and guiding treatment for community dwellers at high risk of falling.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="1539-8412",
doi="10.1519/JPT.0b013e3182048006",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1519/JPT.0b013e3182048006"
}