A structural equation model relating physical function, pain, impaired mobility (IM), and falls in older adults

The current study used a structural equation model to investigate the interrelationships among physical function, pain, IM, and falls in 511 American older adults. The model included 11 measurement variables (tandem stance, single leg stance, 360° turn, chair stand, arm curl, sit and reach, back scratch, normative score of 6-min walk or 2-min step, timed up and go, pain, and fall) and four latent variables (balance, strength, flexibility, and IM). The final model with the combined sample demonstrated good fit with the participant data (χ2(31) = 30.0, N = 499, p = 0.52; Goodness of Fit Index (GFI) = 0.99). Balance had a significant and the largest effect on IM (standardized regression weights = −1.05, p < 0.001). Strength, endurance, flexibility, and pain had small effects on IM (standardized regression weights < 0.2). The findings suggest that balance and mobility testing should be a priority in fall screening and prevention programs.