Comparison of Physical Performance, Balance, and Functional Mobility Parameters According to Walking Speed in Geriatric Individuals

Comparison of Physical Performance, Balance, and Functional Mobility Parameters According to Walking Speed Threshold Values in Geriatric Individuals

The aim of this study is to examine the determining role of walking speed on physical performance parameters in individuals aged 65 and over. The study aims to compare flexibility, lower extremity muscle strength (5-count sit-stand test), static balance (single-leg balance), upper extremity muscle strength (hand grip), dynamic balance (FUT), functional mobility (TUG), and stair climbing/climbing skills in individuals with walking speeds of 0.4-0.8 m/s (limited community mobility) and above 0.8 m/s (independent community mobility).

Although the relationships between walking speed and individual physical parameters have been studied in the geriatric literature, comprehensive analyses comparing multidimensional parameters such as flexibility, static-dynamic balance, hand grip strength, and stair activity performance in groups separated according to walking speed threshold values (0.4-0.8 m/s and >0.8 m/s) are needed. This study aims to identify which physical components show the most significant deficits when walking speed decreases, thereby providing a scientific basis for clinical assessment processes and personalized preventive rehabilitation programs.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Being 65 years of age or older
• Being able to perform walking functions
• Having sufficient mobility to perform the physical performance tests included in the research, such as 5 sit-stand tests, TUG (Trip and Go) tests, and stair climbing/descending tests. • Having a walking speed of at least 0.4 m/s or more as a result of the 4 Meter Walking Test (having limited or independent mobility within the community).
• Voluntarily agreeing to participate in the study and providing informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Having a history of advanced cognitive impairment or diagnosed dementia that would impair the ability to understand and follow test instructions.
2. Those diagnosed with moderate or severe cognitive impairment (MMSE < 24 and/or MoCA < 21)
3. Having a walking speed below 0.4 m/s on the 4-Meter Walk Test (individuals who are wheelchair-bound or bedridden).
4. Advanced Parkinson's disease, active stroke sequelae, lower extremity fracture within the last 6 months, or a history of acute orthopedic surgery that primarily affects motor performance and balance.
5. Those with severe hearing or vision loss
6. Individuals experiencing significant difficulty communicating
7. Participants who did not sign the voluntary consent form