Elderly (People Aged 65 or More)elderlyNCT07180030
Figure-of-eight Backward Walk Test in Elderly
An observational study of Elderly (People Aged 65 or More) and Balance, run by Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
Trial summary
Mobility is a fundamental element of healthy aging. Balance is a necessary function during mobility for all movements throughout life in elderly individuals. Falls due to balance disorders in elderly individuals cause a decrease in the quality of life. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 65 to 85 yearsHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Elderly (People Aged 65 or More), Balance, Dynamic Balance
- How many people
- 87 participants
- Where
- 1 siteTurkey (Türkiye)
- Study dates
- 1 May 2025to 30 Sep 2026
- Phase
- Observational
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 65 to 85 years
- All sexes
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Older adult
Study population: It is planned to include elderly individuals over 65 years of age residing in the Kahramanmaraş city center in the scope of the research, and healthy elderly individuals over 65 years of age (n=87) who can be reached by random sampling method will be included in the research.
Who may be able to join
- Healthy elderly individuals over 65 years of age.
- Elderly individuals who have fluent in Turkish and able to communicate.
- Elderly individuals who have no cognitive impairment.
Who cannot join
- Elderly individuals who have any neurological problems (Parkinson's, hemiplegia, etc.)
- Elderly individuals who have any orthopedic problems (fractures, etc., in the last year)
- Elderly individuals who have a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 40 kg/m2
- Elderly individuals who havevision problems
- Elderly individuals who have had any lower extremity surgery in the last year
- Elderly individuals who use any mobility aids
- Elderly individuals who refuse to participate in the study.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Turkey (Türkiye)1 site, 1 recruiting
- Recruiting
Kahramanmaraş Sütçü imam University, Faculty of Health Science, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation
Kahramanmaraş, Onikişubat, 46100
hatice adıgüzel tat, associate professor, +903443002647, fzthatis@gmail.com
Hatice Adigüzel Tat, associate professor, +903443002647, fzthatis@gmail.com
About this study
Official title: Determination of Reliability, Validity, and Minimal Detectable Change (MDC) of the Figure-of-eight Backward Walking Test in Elderly Adults
Mobility is a fundamental element of healthy aging. Balance is a necessary function during mobility for all movements throughout life in elderly individuals. Falls due to balance disorders in elderly individuals cause a decrease in the quality of life. Studies in the literature indicate that 13% of individuals aged 65-69 experience falls, and this rate rises to 46% in individuals over 85. Lower extremity muscle volume and strength gradually decrease with aging. This decreased muscle strength directly impacts individuals' activities of daily living.Normal walking speed for elderly individuals is related to balance and overall health performance. However, walking assessments generally focus on walking activities in a forward direction and in a straight line. However, in daily life, we may need to sit on a chair, walk backward to navigate a narrow space, or change direction suddenly due to obstacles or environmental cues. Walking backward requires more complex motor control, and these gait training programs are known to be effective in improving balance and walking skills.Clinically, balance assessments in the elderly persons are commonly measured by using the TUG, 10-meter walk test, functional reach test, 4-square step test, and Berg balance scale. The methods used to assess balance are still not fully standardized. The best test for assessing dynamic balance and fall risk is still up for debate, especially when it comes to elderly individuals who live freely in the community. Further research is needed to determine whether lateral walking tests can identify those at high risk of falling in elderly adults. The purpose of this study was to determine the reliability, validity, and minimal detectable change (MDC) of the Figure-of-8 backward walking test in healthy elderly adults.
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| 1/study group | Healthy elderly individuals over the age of 65 living in the city center of Kahramanmaraş |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
figure-of-eight backward walking test
In the figure-of-eight backward walking (F8BWT) test, participants begin at the midpoint of two cones 1.5 m apart. Participants walk backward, circle both cones, and record the time it takes to return to the starting point. The test is administered by both raters on the first and second days.The assessments will be conducted by two separate specialists(physiotherapists). Individuals' completion times for each activity during the tests will be recorded using a stopwatch. Assessments will be conducted over two days, in two sessions per day. On the first day, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will perform the F8BWT twice. In the second session, the second assessor (PT2) will perform the F8BWT twice. The average of the two recorded times will be noted. On the second day of the assessment, the PT2 will begin by performing the F8BWT. PT2 will then perform the F8BWT twice. The average of the two recorded times will be noted.
Measured: On the day 1, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will perform the F8BWT twice. In the second session, the second assessor (PT2) will perform the F8BWT twice.
Secondary outcomes (8)
SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC FORM
Demographic information (age, height, weight, gender, education level, medication use, chronic diseases, medications), history and number of falls in the last year, and history of surgery on the lower extremity will be questioned.
Measured: On the day1, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will record.
8-Figure Walk Test
This test is used to evaluate individuals' walking and balance performance. In the figure-of-eight backward walking test, participants start from the midpoint of two cones 1.5 m apart. Participants walk forward, circle each cone, and record the time it takes to return to the starting point.
Measured: On the day1, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will record.
Timed Up and Go Test (TUG)
In the timed up and go test, the time required for the participant to rise from a chair, walk 3 m, turn, walk back, and sit back in the chair is recorded. Participants are asked to remove their shoes if they have any that might affect walking performance.
Measured: On the first day1, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will record.
Modified 4-Square Step Test (mFSST)
The mFSST is a dynamic balance test that involves forward, backward, and sideways steps. A square is drawn on the floor and consists of four equal parts. These are numbered clockwise, 1-2-3-4. Subjects are asked to complete the test one step at a time, following the command "Start," 1-2-3-4, and then 4-3-2-1, without scraping their feet. The elapsed time is recorded.
Measured: On the first day1, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will record.
3-Meter Backward Walk Test (3MGYT)
For this test, a 3-meter distance is marked with a tape, and participants are asked to walk backwards, with their heels on the tape. During the test, participants are asked to walk as fast as possible, but running is not allowed. Participants may look back if they wish. The time is measured and recorded.
Measured: On the day1, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will record.
Tandem Test
This test, used to assess balance, is administered with eyes open and eyes closed, alternating between each foot. The participant is asked to stand with one foot in front of the other (tandem stance), first with eyes open, then with eyes closed, for 10 seconds. They are asked to place the foot they find most comfortable with either forward or backward. The times during the test are recorded in seconds using a stopwatch.
Measured: On the day1, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will record.
One-Legged Standing Test
In the one-leg standing test, participants are asked to stand on one foot of their choice while lifting the other foot, keeping it away from the ground and other body parts. If the foot touches the ground or the extremity in contact with the ground changes position during the test, the test is terminated and the time is recorded. Alternatively, if participants can stand on one foot for 30 seconds, the test is terminated and the time is recorded.
Measured: On the day1, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will record.
The Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I)
The The Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I) is a questionnaire developed to assess the tendency to fall during activities of daily living. The test has a 4-point Likert-type scale (1- not at all concerned, 2- somewhat concerned, 3- quite concerned, and 4- very concerned). The 16-item questionnaire requires a minimum score of 16 and a maximum score of 64. Increasing scores indicate deterioration of balance (23). Participants complete the FES-I questionnaire in a quiet environment, and the score is then calculated.
Measured: On the day1, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will record.
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted18 Sep 2025
- Study start1 May 2025
- Primary completion15 Sep 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion30 Sep 2026 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Elderly (People Aged 65 or More)Studies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Observational
- Observational model
- Other
- Time perspective
- Prospective
- Enrolment
- 87 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Hatice Adiguzel, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University
- Investigators
- hatice adıgüzel tat, Associate Professor, Principal investigator, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam UniversityAbdülkadir Ertürk, Msc, Principal investigator, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam UniversityYusuf Şinasi Kırmacı, Asisstant Prof, Study chair, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam Universitymehmet göğremiş, Asisstant Prof, Study chair, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam UniversityMehtap Sönmez, Professor, Study chair, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam UniversitySuat Erel, Professor, Study director, Pamukkale UniversityEmel Taşvuran Horata, Study chair, Sakarya Applied Sciences University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07180030
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- figure-of-eight backward walk
- Acronym
- elderly
- Status last verified
- Dec 2025
- First submitted
- 5 Sep 2025
- Last updated
- 14 Jul 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 14 Jul 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Determination of Reliability, Validity, and Minimal Detectable Change (MDC) of the Figure-of-eight Backward Walking Test in Elderly Adults
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07180030
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- elderly / figure-of-eight backward walk
- Study type
- Observational
- Recruitment status
- Recruiting
- Enrolment
- 87 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 1 May 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 15 Sep 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 30 Sep 2026 (estimated)
- First posted
- 18 Sep 2025 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
Mobility is a fundamental element of healthy aging. Balance is a necessary function during mobility for all movements throughout life in elderly individuals. Falls due to balance disorders in elderly individuals cause a decrease in the quality of life. Studies in the literature indicate that 13% of individuals aged 65-69 experience falls, and this rate rises to 46% in individuals over 85. Lower extremity muscle volume and strength gradually decrease with aging. This decreased muscle strength directly impacts individuals' activities of daily living.Normal walking speed for elderly individuals is related to balance and overall health performance. However, walking assessments generally focus on walking activities in a forward direction and in a straight line. However, in daily life, we may need to sit on a chair, walk backward to navigate a narrow space, or change direction suddenly due to obstacles or environmental cues. Walking backward requires more complex motor control, and these gait training programs are known to be effective in improving balance and walking skills.Clinically, balance assessments in the elderly persons are commonly measured by using the TUG, 10-meter walk test, functional reach test, 4-square step test, and Berg balance scale. The methods used to assess balance are still not fully standardized. The best test for assessing dynamic balance and fall risk is still up for debate, especially when it comes to elderly individuals who live freely in the community. Further research is needed to determine whether lateral walking tests can identify those at high risk of falling in elderly adults. The purpose of this study was to determine the reliability, validity, and minimal detectable change (MDC) of the Figure-of-8 backward walking test in healthy elderly adults.
Study design
- Observational model
- Other
- Time perspective
- Prospective
- Number of arms
- 1
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| 1/study group | – | –Healthy elderly individuals over the age of 65 living in the city center of Kahramanmaraş |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 65 to 85 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Older adult
- Study population
- It is planned to include elderly individuals over 65 years of age residing in the Kahramanmaraş city center in the scope of the research, and healthy elderly individuals over 65 years of age (n=87) who can be reached by random sampling method will be included in the research.
Key inclusion criteria (3 listed)
- Healthy elderly individuals over 65 years of age.
- Elderly individuals who have fluent in Turkish and able to communicate.
- Elderly individuals who have no cognitive impairment.
Key exclusion criteria (7 listed)
- Elderly individuals who have any neurological problems (Parkinson's, hemiplegia, etc.)
- Elderly individuals who have any orthopedic problems (fractures, etc., in the last year)
- Elderly individuals who have a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 40 kg/m2
- Elderly individuals who havevision problems
- Elderly individuals who have had any lower extremity surgery in the last year
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Primary outcome
figure-of-eight backward walking test
Time frame: On the day 1, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will perform the F8BWT twice. In the second session, the second assessor (PT2) will perform the F8BWT twice.
In the figure-of-eight backward walking (F8BWT) test, participants begin at the midpoint of two cones 1.5 m apart. Participants walk backward, circle both cones, and record the time it takes to return to the starting point. The test is administered by both raters on the first and second days.The assessments will be conducted by two separate specialists(physiotherapists). Individuals' completion times for each activity during the tests will be recorded using a stopwatch. Assessments will be conducted over two days, in two sessions per day. On the first day, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will perform the F8BWT twice. In the second session, the second assessor (PT2) will perform the F8BWT twice. The average of the two recorded times will be noted. On the second day of the assessment, the PT2 will begin by performing the F8BWT. PT2 will then perform the F8BWT twice. The average of the two recorded times will be noted.
8 secondary outcomes
SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC FORM
Time frame: On the day1, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will record.
8-Figure Walk Test
Time frame: On the day1, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will record.
Timed Up and Go Test (TUG)
Time frame: On the first day1, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will record.
Modified 4-Square Step Test (mFSST)
Time frame: On the first day1, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will record.
3-Meter Backward Walk Test (3MGYT)
Time frame: On the day1, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will record.
Tandem Test
Time frame: On the day1, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will record.
One-Legged Standing Test
Time frame: On the day1, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will record.
The Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I)
Time frame: On the day1, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will record.
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 14 Jul 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
Related trials for Elderly (People Aged 65 or More)
Not yet recruiting
Impact of Pharmacotherapy Optimization in Polymedicated Lebanese Older Adults in Primary Health Care Centers
Older Adults (65 Years and Older), Polypharmacy (People Under Treatment With 5 or More Drugs)
RecruitingPhase 3
Safety and Efficacy of Very Short DAPT in Older Patients Undergoing PCI
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI)
Not yet recruiting
A Clinician-Patient Dual Behavior Change Framework to Leverage Informed Digital Nudges to Reduce Hospital Readmissions and Improve Patient Outcomes: A Trial for Scalable Strategy to Reduce Readmissions (PREVENT-R)
Readmission, Readmission Rates
RecruitingObservational study
Functional Decline and Quality of Life After Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery in Older Adults
Cancer Abdomen, Elderly (People Aged 65 or More)
Recruiting
Effect of Exergaming Program Versus Neuromuscular Exercise in Elderly People With Motor Cognitive Risk Syndrome
Motoric Cognitive Risk Syndrome, Elderly (People Aged 65 or More)
Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
hatice adıgüzel tat, Associate Professor principal investigator
Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University
Abdülkadir Ertürk, Msc principal investigator
Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University
Yusuf Şinasi Kırmacı, Asisstant Prof study chair
Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
An observational study of Elderly (People Aged 65 or More) and Balance, run by Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 3 inclusion and 7 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: looking for participants now, as of the sponsor's last update on 14 Jul 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye). Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
Contact hatice adıgüzel tat, Associate Proffessor (+903443002647 ext. 2647, fzthatis@gmail.com), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
figure-of-eight backward walking test (time frame: On the day 1, in the first session, the first assessor (PT1) will perform the F8BWT twice. In the second session, the second assessor (PT2) will perform the F8BWT twice.). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 14 Jul 2026.