What does the 6-minute Walk Test measure?

The 6-minute Walk Test primarily measures endurance, particularly cardiovascular and muscular endurance, in individuals. This assessment evaluates how far a person can walk in six minutes, providing insights into their aerobic capacity and stamina. Endurance is crucial as it reflects the ability of an individual to sustain physical activity over time, which is especially important for seniors to maintain mobility and independence.

Unlike coordination, flexibility, or balance, which are evaluated through different types of tests, the 6-minute Walk Test focuses specifically on how effectively a person can perform sustained walking. This makes it a valuable tool in geriatric assessments, helping healthcare providers gauge the overall functional fitness level and potential mobility limitations of seniors.