Normative Data of Upper Extremity Performance Test for Elderly (TEMPA) for Korean Adult Population and Characteristics of Hand Function and Strength

Normative Data of Upper Extremity Performance Test for Elderly (TEMPA) for Korean Adult Population and Characteristics of Hand Function and Strength

Objective : The purpose of this study was establishing clinical norms of TEMPA Korean version for Korean adult population in addition to identifying characteristics of hand function by age and gender based on the collected data. Methods : A total of 138 healthy adults between ages 20 and 59 were recruited by continuous sampling. All subjects had been employed TEMPA Korean version and Jarmar dynamometer and pinch gauge to evaluate hand function and strength. Results : The results showed that there were no statistically significant difference in overall hand function among the age groups and between genders. Also, while there were no significant differences in overall speed and qualitative movement, age groups of 40s and 50s showed a declining tendency in speed in some of the tasks. Also, hand strength increases up to 40s and start declining from the 50s, but most results did not show significant differences among the age groups. Conclusion : Normative data of TEMPA Korean version for Korean adult population was established, therefore, it can be used in clinical setting and research as evidence based. Furthermore, occupational therapists need to consider about the signs of decline in hand function and strength in middle-aged adults and to provide education programs to maintain their hand function.