The 20-s Stepping Test and Chair Stand Test Using an Infrared Depth Sensor: Criteria for the Evaluation of Activities of Daily Living Among Older Women

The sensing technology offers an objective, cost-effective, and easy-to-implement method for real-time movement analysis during activities of daily living (ADLs). Previous studies suggested that the amount of movement of the head and knees during the 20-s stepping test (ST), as well as the trunk forward tilt angle (TFTA) during the chair stand test (CST), can help distinguish older adults who require nursing care from those who main independent. However, prior reports have been limited by small sample sizes. Establishing baseline values from larger populations would be beneficial for providing feedback on fall risk and other mobility-related factors in the future. This study aimed to establish age-related reference values based on a large sample of community-dwelling older women. A total of 837 women aged 65 years and older residing in Itabashi, Tokyo participated. Each participant completed one trial of the ST and two trials of the CST using a Kinect™ infrared depth sensor system. Analysis by age group revealed significant differences in the median values of all ST-related parameters, enabling the development of 5-point assessment criteria using percentiles. Grade 3 (25–75%) was designated as the normative range. Although TFTA values were not significantly correlated with age, standard values were similarly established. These reference values can serve as benchmarks for evaluating physical function and detecting potential risk factors related to frailty, falls, or loss of independence. Given its simplicity and non-invasive nature, this method offers strong potential as a practical screening tool for assessing ADLs in older adults.