Reliability and validity of the Tinetti performance oriented mobility assessment in Chinese community-dwelling older adults

Objective: The Tinetti Performance Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA) has been used for assessing mobility limitations and predicting falling risk among older adults. This study aimed to evaluate the reliability and validity of the POMA in Chinese community-dwelling older adults.

Methods: We used data from a cross-sectional study in which a sample of 627 older adults completed the POMA. Reliability was tested using internal consistencies and test-retest reliability analyses, while validity was assessed using confirmatory factor analysis and known-group approach. Floor and ceiling effects were also tested.

Results: The POMA and its two subscales had good internal consistency reliability and interrater reliability. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated the POMA had a two-factor structure. The POMA and its subscales exhibited moderate-to-good discriminant validity. A high ceiling effect was detected.

Conclusions: The POMA had satisfactory reliability and validity among Chinese older adults. Nevertheless, a high ceiling effect may limit its use in community settings.