Fall risk assessment using the Tinetti mobility test in individuals with Huntington's disease.
The Tinetti Mobility Test (TMT) is a clinical balance and gait test that predicts fall risk in the elderly. This study examined the concurrent validity, usefulness of the TMT as a fall risk screening tool, and the potential ability of the TMT to predict falls in individuals with Huntington's disease (HD). Data from a retrospective review of 94 patient records were used. TMT scores were correlated with Unified Huntington Disease Rating Scale (UHDRS) motor scores. The ability of the TMT to accurately assess fall risk was determined using validity index measures. Logistic regression was used to assess the ability of the TMT to predict falls. TMT scores correlated with UHDRS motor scores (r(s) = -0.751, P < 0.0001). Using a cutoff value of 21, the TMT had a sensitivity of 74% and a specificity of 60% to identify fallers. Lower TMT scores and younger age were significant predictors of falls. The TMT is a valid tool for assessing balance and gait status and fall risk of individuals with HD.
Division of Physical Therapy, College of Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA. kloos.4@osu.edu
Anne D
AD
Kloos
Deb A
DA
Kegelmeyer
Gregory S
GS
Young
Sandra K
SK
Kostyk
D000058:Accidental Falls; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005684:Gait; D006801:Humans; D006816:Huntington Disease; D016015:Logistic Models; D008875:Middle Aged; D016017:Odds Ratio; D004856:Postural Balance; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity