MEASUREMENT PROPERTIES OF THE FOUR-SQUARE STEP TEST AND FULLERTON ADVANCED BALANCE. SCALE IN OLDER CANCER SURVIVORS

Abstract

Objective To determine the reliability, validity, SEM, and MDC95 of two advanced balance measures in community dwelling older adults with a history of cancer. Design Cross-sectional study Settings Community-dwelling Participants The sample included 50 older cancer survivors (mean age 73.54 ± 6.31 years). The majority were female (64.0%), breast cancer survivors (60.0%), and white (90.0%). Average time since cancer diagnosis was 11.43 ± 8.41 years. Methods Absolute reliability was examined with Cronbach’s alpha, test-retest reliability with intraclass correlation coef cient. Pearson’s correlation coef cient was used to establish construct validity for each measure with the Short Physical Performance Battery, gait speed, and Timed Up and Go measures. The standard error of the measurement and minimal detectable change at 95% con dence are reported. Main Outcome Measures Two balance measures, the Four-Square Step Test (FSST) and Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale (FABS) were completed twice, each two weeks apart to establish their clinimetric properties in community-dwelling older cancer survivors. Results FABS had excellent test-retest reliability (ICC2,1 = 0.91) and internal consistency (α = 0.91) while the FSST had good reliability (ICC2,1 = 0.85) and internal consistency (α = 0.85). The FSST had a smaller SEM (1.03) and MDC95 (2.85) compared to the FABS (SEM = 1.49, MDC95 = 4.13). Both measures demonstrated construct validity. Conclusion FABS and FSST are valid and reliable balance measures which should be used in community-dwelling older cancer survivors.

Keywords

• cancer survivor
• geriatrics
• neoplasms
• independent living
• postural balance