Utility of performance-based outcome measures (PBOMs) used in fall risk assessment tools for older adults

This study investigated the diagnostic accuracy of different clusters of performance based outcome measures (PBOMs) recommended by two consensus-based guidelines: Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths, and Injuries (STEADI), and those recommended by a systematic review completed by the American Physical Therapy Association and Academy of Geriatric Physical Therapy (APTA-SR, APTA-SR3). 33 community-dwelling older adults (25 females, 8 males) aged mean 79.45 ± 7.64 years participated in this study. Participants completed a fall history questionnaire and were evaluated via a battery of PBOMs for comparative analysis. The diagnostic accuracy of each PBOM cluster was analyzed retrospectively (previous 1 year fall history) and prospectively (6 month follow up). Retrospective analysis revealed the APTA-SR3 had the highest clinical utility and diagnostic accuracy: Sp 88.24% (63.56-98.54), Sn 62.5% (35.43-84.8), LR+ 2.35 (1.22-4.53), LR- 0.19 (0.05-0.73), accuracy 70.22% (51.83-84.81). Prospective analysis revealed the cluster of the APTA-SR and APTA-SR3 had identical diagnostic accuracy: Sn 100% (39.76-100), Sp 43.75% (19.75-70.12), LR+ 1.78 (1.15-2.74), LR- 0 (0), accuracy 60.62% (36.63-81.36). The APTA-SR 3 cluster demonstrated the highest diagnostic accuracy and in this study was the most effective and efficient group of PBOMs to identify fall risk in community dwelling older adults.