Getting up from the floor. Determinants and techniques among healthy older adults

Abstract

Determinants of floor-to-stand (FTS) performance and strategies used for FTS have been investigated little. This study explores the relationship of age, lower-extremity strength, and balance with FTS time and documents strategies used for FTS. It was a cross sectional, descriptive study. The study location was a community or university laboratory with carpeted floor. Participants were 52 healthy volunteers (14 men, 38 women), aged 50–90 years. Lower extremity strength was characterized by the time to complete 5 sit-to-stand (STS) cycles. Balance was measured using timed single limb stance (SLS). Three trials for FTS transfers were videotaped and timed. Observational analysis of videotaped FTS trials (n = 156) was used to identify FTS strategies. Mean FTS time (4.1 ± 1.1 sec) was related to age (r = .39, p < .005), STS time (r = .64, p < .001), and SLS time (r = .36 &−.42, p < .005). Three stages were observed during FTS: initiation, weight transfer, and transition to upright. Movement strategies identified were: asymmetrical side sitting to half kneeling pivot (n = 26), quadruped push-up (n = 18), and symmetrical sit-up/roll over feet (n = 8). FTS performance may be enhanced by training that addresses impairments in lower extremity strength and balance. Movement strategies used successfully by the participants in this study might be beneficial to older adults having difficulty with the task.

Notes

Richard W. Bohannon, EdD, PT, NCS, Professor, School of Allied Health, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269-2101. Physical Therapy Consultants, West Hartford, CT. [email protected]

Michelle M. Lusardi, PhD, PT, Associate Professor and Director Graduate Program in Geriatric Rehabilitation and Wellness College of Education & Health Professions, Sacred Heart University, Fairfield, CT. 06432-1000. [email protected]