Background: This study aims to compare physiological responses, including heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and leg fatigue, between the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and 6-minute step tests (6MST) in community-dwelling older adults. Methods: A randomized crossover trial was conducted to examine physiological responses, including HR, BP, RPE, and leg fatigue, during the 6MWT and 6MST in community-dwelling older adults. Forty participants took part in the study. Baseline demographic characteristics and physiological responses were assessed for both the 6MWT and 6MST. A 30-minute rest period was provided between tests to ensure adequate recovery. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize demographic data. The Shapiro-Wilk test was performed to assess data normality, and paired t-test were conducted to compare HR, BP, RPE, and leg fatigue, between the two tests. Results: HR, SBP, RPE, and leg fatigue increased significantly after both tests (p 0.05). Comparisons between the two tests indicated no significant differences in HR, SBP, or DBP; however, RPE and leg fatigue were significantly higher during the 6MST than the 6MWT (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Both tests elevated physiological responses in community-dwelling older adults. Although HR and BP responses were comparable, RPE and leg fatigue were greater during the 6MST, indicating higher exertion. These findings suggest that both tests effectively assess functional endurance, but the 6MST imposes greater perceived effort and muscular demand than the 6MWT.

Authors:
Patcharin Phrompao, University of Phayao, Thailand
Patchareeya Amput, University of Phayao, Thailand

About the Presenter(s)
Ms.Patcharin Phrompao is a physical therapist in the Division of Physical Therapy, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Phayao, Thailand.

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