Hand-grip dynamometry provides a valid indication of upper extremity strength impairment in home care patients.

This retrospective study investigated the validity of hand-grip dynamometry with respect to its use in predicting generalized upper extremity strength. The records of 37 patients (mean average age, 77.7 years) receiving home care were used. Discriminant construct validity was examined by comparing their dynamometry measurements with measurements of age- and gender-matched healthy individuals reported in the literature. Convergent construct validity was described by the correlations of their dynamometry measurements and manual muscle test scores of the upper extremities. The patients' dynamometer-measured grip forces were significantly less than reported normative values. The patients' dynamometer measured grip forces were correlated significantly with their manual muscle test scores. These findings support the construct validity of hand-grip dynamometry for characterizing upper extremity strength impairment among adults treated in a home care setting.