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Background and Purpose. The Continuous-Scale Physical Functional Performance Test (CS-PFP) can be used to obtain valid, reliable, and sensitive measurements of physical functional capacity. This test requires a fixed laboratory space and approximately 1 hour to administer. This study was carried out in 4 steps, or substudies, to develop and validate a short, community-based version (PFP-10) that requires less space and equipment than the CS-PFP. Subjects and Methods. Retrospective data (n=228) and prospective data (n=91) on men and women performing the CS-PFP or the PFP-10 are reported. A 12-week exercise program was used to examine sensitivity to change. Data analyses were done using paired t-test, Pearson correlation, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and delta index (DI) procedures. Results. The PFP-10 total score and 4 of the 5 domain scores were statistically similar (within 3%) to those of the CS-PFP. The PFP-10 upper-body strength domain score was 17% lower, but was highly correlated (ICC=.97). Community and established laboratory PFP-10 scores were similar (ICC=.85-.97). The PFP-10 also is sensitive to change (DI=.21-.54). Discussion and Conclusion. The PFP-10 yields valid, reliable, and sensitive measurements and can be confidently substituted for the CS-PFP. [Cress ME, Petrella JK, Moore TL, Schenkman ML. Continuous-Scale Physical Functional Performance Test: validity, reliability, and sensitivity of data for the short version. Phys Ther. 2005;85:323-335.]
Key Words: Older adults, Physical capacity, Physical function.
Use of physical performance measures provides valuable insight into the ability of older people to perform specific tasks that are important for daily living. Measures of task performance, such as the Short Physical Performance Battery1 and the Physical Performance Test,2 have been used in several epidemiological studies (eg, Epidemiologic Studies of Established Populations in the Elderly,1 Women's Health and Aging Study,3 Health ABC Study4), establishing evidence for mobility and balance performance as risk factors for institutionalization and mortality. A measure, such as the Physical Performance Test, typically requires very little equipment, and tasks can be administered in most locations.2 However, these measures may not adequately challenge individuals with higher-level functional ability and, therefore, often are unable to quantify function in people with higher physical ability.4 For example, the ability to pick up an item from the floor is not difficult for many older individuals, whereas carrying a heavy bag of groceries as...