Motor Measures Predict Health Outcomes in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Aron S. Buchman, Sue E. Leurgans, Patricia A. Boyle, Julie A. Schneider, Steven E. Arnold, David A. Bennett
Primary Institution: Rush University Medical Center
Hypothesis
Combinations of motor constructs more strongly predict adverse health outcomes in older people.
Conclusion
Using multiple motor assessments can better identify older individuals at risk for negative health outcomes.
Supporting Evidence
- Physical frailty, parkinsonian signs score, and global motor score were all associated with risk of death.
- Combinations of motor constructs improved prediction of adverse health outcomes.
- Participants were followed for an average of over 5 years.
Takeaway
This study shows that looking at different ways to measure how well older people move can help us understand who might get sick or have problems as they age.
Methodology
Participants were assessed using three motor constructs and followed for health outcomes over time.
Potential Biases
Exclusion of participants with dementia, stroke, or Parkinson's disease may underestimate the associations.
Limitations
The study's cohort was selected, which may not represent the general population.
Participant Demographics
Average age 79.7 years, 74.2% women, 88.2% white non-Hispanic.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.27-1.73
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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