Clinical walk tests may not predict the development of frailty in healthy older adults. With advancements in wearable technology, it may be possible to predict the development of frailty using loading asymmetry parameters during clinical walk tests. This prospective cohort study aimed to test the hypothesis that increased limb loading asymmetry predicts frailty risk in community-living older adults. Sixty-three independently ambulant community-living adults aged ≥ 65 years were recruited, and forty-seven subjects completed the ten-month follow-up after baseline. Loading asymmetry index of net and regional (forefoot, midfoot, and rearfoot) plantar forces were collected using force sensing insoles during a 10 m walk test with their maximum speed. Development of frailty was defined if the participant progressed from baseline at least one grading group of frailty at the follow-up period using the Kihon Checklist. Fourteen subjects developed frailty during the follow-up period. Increased risk of frailty was associated with each 1% increase in loading asymmetry of net impulse (Odds ratio 1.153, 95%CI 1.001 to 1.329). Net impulse asymmetry significantly correlated with asymmetry of peak force in midfoot force. These results indicate the feasibility of measuring plantar forces of gait during clinical walking tests and underscore the potential of using load asymmetry as a tool to augment frailty risk assessment in community-dwelling older adults.
Keywords: asymmetry; frailty; gait; plantar force; wearable sensor.