Bend down and reach, as if to pick up an object. Watch for ability to maintain balance. Watch for ability to walk and turn around without hesitation, excessive deviation from side to side, or feet scraping the floor. Get up from floor. Watch for ability to get up either unassisted or with the help of a chair for support.
Poor performance signifies lower extremity dysfunction, indicating risk for long lies.
Prepared for Geriatrics by Rein Tideiksaar, PhD. Vol.