title: The application of strength and power related field tests in older adults: criteria, current status and a future perspective.
abstract: Leg muscle strength (LMS) and leg muscle power (LMP) are determinants of aspects of functional status and important parameters for measuring intervention effects in older adults. Field tests are often used for the evaluation of LMS and LMP in older persons. However, criteria important for the application of strength and power related field tests in older adults have not been systematically taken into account and are not yet fully listed and described in a single publication. Therefore, this paper describes criteria important for the application of strength and power related field tests in older adults. In addition, strength and power related field tests commonly used in older adults are evaluated by using the described criteria. Based on this evaluation, this paper provides a perspective on the further development of field tests. Criteria important for strength and power related field tests are: adequate accuracy, precision, concurrent validity, clinical validity, practical feasibility and pure strength or power outcomes. Commonly used strength and power related field tests do not meet all the aforementioned criteria. Therefore, further development of field tests is necessary. Mobile sensing systems are potentially useful for the evaluation of LMS and LMP in older adults. Mobile sensing systems do not have the limitations of commonly used field tests and provide important additional advantages. In particular, mobile sensing systems offer the opportunity of continuous monitoring during free-movement in the home-environment, thereby reducing the need of standardized assessments by health-care professionals. Future studies should examine the clinical validity of mobile sensing systems and evaluate the application of sensor technology in exercise-based interventions.
authors: Center for Human Movement Sciences, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
authors: G Ruben H
authors: GR
authors: Regterschot
authors: Institute of Movement and Sport Gerontology, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
authors: Tobias
authors: T
authors: Morat
authors: Center for Human Movement Sciences, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
authors: Marjanne
authors: M
authors: Folkersma
authors: Center for Human Movement Sciences, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands ; Institute of Movement and Sport Gerontology, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
authors: Wiebren
authors: W
authors: Zijlstra
keywords: Aged; Assessment; Muscle power; Muscle strength; Sensor