Validity and reliability of a simple ‘low-tech’ test for measuring choice stepping reaction time in older people

Objective:To establish the psychometric properties of a simple ‘low-tech’ choice stepping reaction time test (CSRT-M) by investigating its validity and test–retest reliability.Design:Cross-sectional.Setting:Community.Subjects:A total of 169 older people from the control arm of a clinical trial and a convenience sample of 30 older people.Main measures:Demographic, physical, cognitive and prospective falls data were collected in addition to CSRT-M. The CSRT-M time was taken as the total time to complete 20 steps onto four targets printed on a portable rubber mat. Assessment of the original electronic version (CSRT-E) and re-administration of the CSRT-M the next day was done in 30 participants.Results:Multivariate regression analysis showed that the CSRT-M time was best explained by leaning balance control, quadriceps strength and cognitive functioning (R2 = 0.44). Performance on the CSRT-M was worse in older participants and participants with a presence of fall risk factors, supporting good discriminant val...