title: Physical function measurements predict mortality in ambulatory older men.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  To assess and compare the predictive value of physical function measurements (PFMs) for all-cause mortality in older men and to evaluate the Timed Up and Go test (TUG) as a predictor in subjects with underlying comorbidity.
  
  
  METHODS
  Observational study of a population-based sample of 352 ambulatory older men aged 71-86 at study baseline. The Rapid disability rating scale-2, 36-Item short form health survey, Grip strength, Five times sit-to-stand test, Standing balance, and TUG were determined at baseline. Associations with all-cause mortality were assessed using Cox proportional hazard analyses. Age, Body mass index (BMI), smoking status, education, physical activity and cognitive status were included as confounders. Follow-up exceeded 15 years. Comorbidity status was categorized into cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and diabetes mellitus.
  
  
  RESULTS
  All examined PFMs were associated with all-cause mortality. TUG was the best predictor (adjusted HR per SD increase = 1·58, 95% CI = 1·40-1·79, P < 0·001) for global mortality and continued to be predictive in subjects with cardiovascular disease (adjusted HR per SD increase = 1·80, 95% CI = 1·40-2·33, P < 0·001).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The assessment of physical functioning is important in the evaluation of older persons. We encourage the use of the TUG as a reliable, quick and feasible screening tool in clinical settings.
authors: Department of Geriatrics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium. Stefanie.Debuyser@UGent.be
authors: Stefanie L
authors: SL
authors: De Buyser
authors: Mirko
authors: M
authors: Petrovic
authors: Youri E
authors: YE
authors: Taes
authors: Kaatje R C
authors: KR
authors: Toye
authors: Jean-Marc
authors: JM
authors: Kaufman
authors: Stefan
authors: S
authors: Goemaere
mesh_terms: D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D015992:Body Mass Index; D002423:Cause of Death; D005080:Exercise Test / Q000379:methods*; D015577:Geriatric Assessment / Q000379:methods*; D018737:Hand Strength / Q000502:physiology; D006305:Health Status Indicators; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010809:Physical Fitness / Q000502:physiology*; D004856:Postural Balance / Q000502:physiology*; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011597:Psychomotor Performance / Q000502:physiology*; D012307:Risk Factors; D012720:Severity of Illness Index