Upper-Extremity physical performance tests in older adults: Reference values, reliability and measurement error

Background: Physical performance tests are reliable tools to assess aspects related to strength, power, and mobility. Unfortunately, few studies were performed with older adults. The main goal of this study was to describe reference values for the Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test (CKCUEST) and Upper Quarter Y Balance Test (UQYBT) in older adults and to determine differences based on sex. Reliability and measurement error were also established. Methods: Test-retest design with a sample of 103 older adults. The CKCUEST (number of touches, normalized score, and power) and the UQYBT (reach in the medial, superolateral, and inferolateral direction, total excursion, and the composite score) were performed. The scores on both tests were adjusted using an analysis of covariance model. Reliability was determined using Intraclass Correlation Coefficient and error measurement through Standard Error of Measurement, Smallest Detectable Change, and Bland and Altman Plots. Results: Normative values were provided. Males presented higher scores than females only in the medial reach of the UQYBT in the dominant limb (p < 0.001). Good reliability was found for the CKCUEST, while good to excellent reliability was found for the UQYBT; with the exception of the superolateral reach in the dominant limb. Absence of systematic error was presented. Conclusion: Normative data were provided and differences according to sex were found only in the UQYBT. Results demonstrated good to excellent reliability, except the superolateral reach in the dominant limb. Clinically acceptable absolute reliability values were found.