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Performance-oriented mobility assessment (POMA) balance score indicates need for assistive device.
Kathryn D Mitchell1, Roberta A Newton
1Drexel University, Programs in Rehabilitation Sciences, 245 N. 15th Street, MS 502, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA. Kathryn.D.Mitchell@drexel.edu
Disability and Rehabilitation. Assistive Technology
|March 6, 2009
Summary
Older adults using assistive devices (AD) score lower on balance tests, indicating a need for support. A score below 12 on the POMA balance subscale suggests the need for an AD.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Biomechanics
- Physical Therapy
Background:
- Assistive devices (AD) are crucial for mobility in older adults.
- Assessing balance is key to fall prevention and independence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if older adults using an AD score lower on the Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA) balance subscale (B-subscale).
- To establish if a POMA B-subscale score of 12 indicates the need for an AD.
Main Methods:
- 82 elderly individuals (mean age 82.1) were assessed for AD use, health, activity, and falls history.
- Balance was evaluated using the POMA B-subscale and a sit-to-stand task without hand support.
Main Results:
- A significant difference in POMA B-subscale scores was found between AD users and non-users (P < 0.001).
- AD use correlated with lower activity levels and poorer health status.
- A cut-score of 12 on the B-subscale predicted AD need (P = 0.000).
Conclusions:
- Older adults using ADs exhibit lower balance scores and report diminished activity and health.
- A POMA B-subscale score under 12 is a strong indicator for AD requirement.
- Individuals using ADs with a history of falls scored lower on the B-subscale.
