Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE): The Relationship With Activity Measured by a Portable Accelerometer

Background The purpose of this study was to examine the validity of the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE) by comparing PASE scores with physical activity assessed by a portable accelerometer.

Methods Experimental design: Correlational-mean activity level over a 3-day period was correlated with PASE scores. Setting: Physical activity of participants was monitored over 3 days during normal daily activity. Participants: Twenty healthy adult volunteers, 67-80 years of age, participated in this study. Measures: Physical activity from 09:00 to 21:00 hours was assessed over 3 consecutive weekdays (Wednesday-Friday) using a Computer Science and Applications, Inc. (CSA) portable accelerometer. Following completion of the 3-day monitoring period physical activity was assessed with the PASE.

Results PASE scores were significantly correlated with average 3-day CSA readings (r = 0.49, p < 0.05) in the total sample and in those over age 70 years (r = 0.64, p < 0.5).

Conclusions These results add to the literature supporting the validity of the PASE as a measure of physical activity in older individuals.