Journal of
Clinical Medicine and Research

  • Abbreviation: J. Clin. Med. Res.
  • Language: English
  • ISSN: 2141-2235
  • DOI: 10.5897/JCMR
  • Start Year: 2009
  • Published Articles: 106

Full Length Research Paper

Validation of predicted height model based on arm span, knee height and sitting height in Indonesian elderly people

Fatmah
  • Fatmah
  • University of Indonesia, Faculty of Public Health, Department of Public Health Nutrition, Depok 16424, West Java Province, Indonesia.
  • Google Scholar


  •  Accepted: 11 March 2010
  •  Published: 31 May 2010

Abstract

The application of Chumlea and Eleanor models on Indonesian elderly people were not appropriate. Knee height, arm span and sitting height can be used to predict height in elderly people. The study aim is to validate predicted height model from the three predictors compared to actual height, which is put in the nutritional status card to pre-test the card and measurement guideline. Model validation were made towards 110 elderly people with cross-sectional design. A qualitative data was used to try out the card and guideline. The validation study revealed the predictors had the highest sensitivity and specificity. Some revision on language and figure were needed in the card and guideline. Training on the use of it after the study, was given to the geriatric integrated service post cadres. Post training monitoring showed that the cadres’ skills were adequately good in doing measurement and reading. Validation of the predicted height from the three predictors were greater compared to Chumlea and Eleanor models. The three predictors were more valid for assessing elderly people nutritional status when it was difficult to measure their actual heightdue to vertebrae disorder, paralysis, disability, and other conditions. The card and measurement guideline can be used in the community and clinical settings for the elderly nutritional status.

 

Key words: Arm span, knee height, sitting height, nutritional card, measurement guideline.