Mobility Tests Flag Fall Risk, Not 10-Year Lifespan Predictions

3 articles · Updated · The Associated Press · Aug 22

Mobility tests such as chair stands, grip strength and the 10-foot Timed Up and Go can reveal weakness, balance problems and frailty risk, but experts say they should not be used as a crystal ball for lifespan.
A 30-second chair-stand test and a viral sit-to-stand floor test are screening tools that help doctors identify why function is slipping—whether from knee pain, poor balance, slow reflexes or cardiovascular issues.
A 10-minute Short Physical Performance Battery has predicted mortality and disability in large trials, yet doctors stress that any single score can be skewed by conditions such as arthritis, stroke or simple deconditioning.
More than a quarter of older adults fall each year, one estimate says, and experts urge people with poor scores or recent falls to tell a doctor because follow-up may lead to physical therapy, medication changes or assistive devices.