Assessing the Determinants of 6-minute Walk Test and Its Correlation With Quality of Life

The 6 minute walk test measures the distance walked in 6 minutes without sitting and without the use of a walker or the help of another person (a cane may be used). The walk was conducted in a wide hallway, specifically designed for this type of assessment, with a defined 20-meter course. The subject walked back and forth in the hallway for six minutes and the distance covered was recorded.

The EQ-5D is a self-reported questionnaire that describes a respondent's health using a descriptive system comprised of five items, each representing a different health dimension (mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort, and anxiety/depression). For each dimension, respondents state whether they have no problems, slight problems, moderate problems, severe problems, or are unable to perform the activity.

The SPPB is a brief performance battery based on timed short distance walk, repeated chair stands and balance test administered by trained examiners. The measurement goal for this battery is to assess lower extremity functional limitations, which indicate functional abilities and are a strong measure of risk for future disability.