Intra-observer and inter-observer repeatability of two slowness tests: Moberg picking-up and Twelve-ball tests

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Neurology
• Physical Therapy

Background:

• Slowness is a key indicator in geriatric assessments, often linked to frailty.
• Gait speed is a common measure, but alternatives are sought.
• The Moberg picking-up test (MPUT) and the novel Twelve-ball test (TBT) assess slowness in older adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the intra-observer and inter-observer repeatability of the MPUT and TBT.
• To evaluate the reliability of the TBT as a simplified alternative to the MPUT for measuring slowness.

Main Methods:

• Data from 596 community-dwelling older adults (aged 81-86) from the Lausanne cohort 65+ were analyzed.
• Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and standard error of measurement (SEM) assessed relative and absolute repeatability.
• Two sets of MPUT and TBT measurements were performed by the same and different observers.

Main Results:

• The TBT demonstrated higher intra-observer (ICC=0.89) and inter-observer (ICC=0.84) repeatability compared to the MPUT (intra-observer ICC=0.77, inter-observer ICC=0.74).
• The TBT also showed lower SEM values, indicating better absolute consistency.
• Repeatability for TBT was consistently superior across gender, education, and speed subgroups.

Conclusions:

• Both MPUT and TBT are reliable measures for assessing slowness in older adults.
• The TBT exhibits superior intra- and inter-observer repeatability and absolute consistency compared to the MPUT.
• The TBT's simplified application makes it a promising tool for geriatric slowness assessments.