[Tinetti motor ability test: sensitivity to change in gait assessment during geriatric hospitalization--aspects of its clinical relevance and quality assurance].

Assessment instruments are recommended in addition to the clinical examination of gait disorders in elderly patients. We examined the sensitivity of gait assessment in a geriatric hospital by using a modified Tinetti's motility score in order to study aspects of clinical relevance and quality assurance. Forty patients were assessed on admission and discharge. The results were rated for information profit in comparison to clinical admission report. Three geriatricians rated the results for clinical relevance. Three quarters of the patients' mobility changed significantly on the course. There were no significant differences in patients with dementia. Assessment by using Tinetti's motility score gained 41% new information and 49% partly new information. This information was rated as considerably relevant to the clinical course in 56% to 80% of the patients. A structured motility score is useful for the purpose of internal quality assurance in a geriatric hospital.