Gait & posture
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Gait speed predicts disability, cognitive decline, hospitalization, nursing home admission and mortality. Although gait speed is often measured in clinical practice and research, testing protocols vary widely and their impact on recorded gait speed has yet to be explored. ⋯ Starting protocol (standing vs. walking), testing surface (over ground vs. computerized walkway), and walking pace (usual vs. fast) impact recorded gait speed in older adults. Care should be taken when comparing gait speeds from studies with different testing protocols.