Key Takeaways
- The Elderly Mobility Scale (EMS) is a validated 7-item assessment that evaluates functional mobility across key daily movements: lying, sitting, standing, balance, walking, and reaching.[1]
- Scores range from 0 to 20. Higher scores indicate greater functional independence.
- The scale has demonstrated good reliability and validity across multiple studies as a measure of functional mobility in older adults.[2]
- This is a personal awareness tool. It can help you track changes in functional mobility over time.
Understanding EMS Scores
14-20 (Independent Mobility): All or most tested activities are performed independently. Functional mobility is at a high level for the assessed movements.
10-13 (Partial Assistance): Some activities are performed independently while others may benefit from support. The individual may use walking aids or chair arms for certain tasks.
0-9 (Significant Assistance): Support or assistance is beneficial across most assessed activities. This score suggests areas where mobility-focused exercises or environmental adaptations may be helpful.
About the Elderly Mobility Scale
The EMS was developed by Smith (1994) as a standardized way to assess functional mobility. It evaluates 7 key movements that are fundamental to daily independent living: bed mobility, sitting transfers, standing balance, walking ability, walking speed, and reaching.[1]
The scale has been validated in multiple settings and populations, with studies confirming its reliability and sensitivity to changes over time.[2][3]
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & References
- Validation and Reliability of the Elderly Mobility Scale. Smith R.. Physiotherapy (1994)
- Further validation of the Elderly Mobility Scale for measurement of mobility of hospitalized elderly people. Prosser L, Canby A.. Clinical Rehabilitation (1997)
- Reliability and Validity of the Elderly Mobility Scale in Acute Hospital. Nolan JS et al.. Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice (2008)
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Disclaimer: This tool is for informational and personal journaling purposes only. Results are estimates based on published formulas and may vary based on individual factors such as genetics, training history, and measurement technique.