The Reliability and Validity of the Figure of 8 Walk Test and Double Task Figure of 8 Walk Test in Persons With Stroke

The Reliability and Validity of the Figure of 8 Walk Test and Double Task Figure of 8 Walk Test in Persons With Stroke

The validity of the dual-task F8W test in predicting falls in older adults has been confirmed. As far as we know, there are no studies evaluating the validity and reliability of the dual-task F8W test in stroke patients. Therefore, the aim of the study is to evaluate the validity and reliability of the F8W and dual-task F8W test in stroke patients.

Recently, the validity and reliability of assessment tools in which two tasks are performed simultaneously have been investigated. Although the utility of dual-task assessments in assessing falls in neurological diseases is uncertain, the reliability of dual-task assessments involving walking has shown quite good results. Stroke survivors have decreases in one or both (locomotor and cognitive) performances while walking and simultaneously performing a cognitive task. The tasks selected in dual-task evaluations may affect dual-task interactions, therefore, tasks that are compatible with daily living activities should be used in dual-task evaluations. A previous study confirmed the validity of the dual-task F8W test in predicting falls in older adults. Because of this reaason, stroke patients aged 50 and over will be included in the study.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Being 50 years of age and older,
• Having only one unilateral stroke at least 6 months prior to the study,
• Being medically stable,
• Being able to walk at least 10 meters with a cane or independently,
• Getting 24 points or more from the Standardized Mini-Mental Test',
• Being to be able to perform the cognitive task (subtraction) to be given during the evaluations.

Exclusion Criteria:

• The presence of additional orthopedic, neurological or cardiovascular diseases that may affect balance and walking,
• Uncorrected vision and hearing problems.