Factors Associated with the Sit-to-stand Movements of the Elderly with Cerebrovascular Disorders

Abstract

Purpose] To help the elderly with cerebrovascular disorders restore their ability to stand from a chair, we analyzed factors associated with their sit-to-stand movements. [Participants and Methods] We interviewed 70 elderly persons aged 65 or older with cerebrovascular disorders and using outpatient rehabilitation services to examine the following items: the name of the diagnosis, date of onset, paralyzed side, and mobility (indoor). We also examined their physiques and physical functions by measuring their ability to stand from a chair with a seat height of 30 or 40 cm, knee extensor strength, degree of motor paralysis on the paralyzed side, knee range of motion, and lower-limb muscle tone on the paralyzed side.[Results] The ability to stand from a chair with a seat height of 40 cm did not show a close association. In contrast, that to stand from a chair with a seat height of 30 cm was closely associated with the knee extensor strength/body weight ratio on the paralyzed side. [Conclusion] The results revealed that the knee extensor strength/body weight ratio on the paralyzed side markedly influences the ability of the elderly with cerebrovascular disorders to stand from a low chair with a seat height of 30 cm.