Journal of aging research
Validation of Self-Reported Gait Speed and Grip Strength Measures With Objective Measures in Older Adults With Mild Frailty in England
By Chen Z, Rookes T, Walters K and 3 others.
Abstract
Background
Clinical research often relies on in-person assessments, which can limit participation among frailer older adults who have difficulty attending clinical settings. Developing valid self-reported alternatives could improve inclusivity. We aimed to validate self-reported gait speed and grip strength against objective measures in adults aged ≥ 65 with mild frailty participating in the HomeHealth trial.
Methods
Participants with paired subjective and objective gait speed and/or grip strength measures were included. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's alpha for gait speed (4 items) and grip strength (2 items), stratified by sex. Criterion validity was evaluated using sensitivity and specificity of self-reported measures to identify frailty (Fried phenotype thresholds). Construct validity was examined through regression analyses with instrumental activities of daily living and quality of life outcomes.