geriatrics rehabilitation

Gait Speed Test (Frailty)

Measures walking speed over 4-5 metres. A powerful predictor of disability, hospitalisation, and mortality in older adults.

Score interpretation

Normal gait speed (>0.8 m/s or <5 sec over 4m)

→ Good functional status; encourage continued activity; standard clinical care; rescreen in 12 months

Borderline or slow with walking aid

→ Physiotherapy referral; falls risk assessment; comprehensive geriatric assessment; review medications affecting balance

Slow gait (<=0.8 m/s or >=5 sec over 4m)

→ High risk: frailty, falls, hospitalisation; urgent geriatric assessment; strength and balance programme; occupational therapy home visit

Interpretation bands for the Gait Speed. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Drugs

Pathways

Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.