are all impacted by activity curtailment [179, 180]. It is related to decreased

independence and increases in caregiver burden. Restriction of activity has been used as

an outcome measure in geriatric intervention trials attempting to reduce disability [181-

183]. Thus activity restriction is an important consideration for the community dwelling

post-stroke population.

 Gill et al. attempted to identify health and non-health related problems associated

with activity restriction [179]. Within the 15-month study period, 76.6% of the elderly

sample restricted activity during at least one month and 39.3% for two consecutive

months. Health care utilization was elevated during months of activity restriction. Gill

and colleagues also evaluated the relationship between restricted activity and disability

development [180]. The authors concluded that activity restriction was significantly

related to disability development for the community dwelling older population.

 Guralnik et al. explored mobility disability and found that limitations in mobility

can lead to decreased performance of ADLs [17]. Such limitations in ADLs and IADLs

have been related to disability and increased health care utilization. It therefore is

essential to explore the impact of mobility, such as gait speed, falls, and fear of falling, on

activity and participation.

Gait Speed, Activity, and Participation

 Gait speed has been associated with community mobility [9, 10]. Those with

declines in gait speed may demonstrate decreases in activity and participation and

experience decreased opportunities to return to societal and personal roles [184].

Consequently, perceived quality of life and life satisfaction are at risk.

 Potter and colleagues completed a study to determine a relationship between gait

speed and ADL performance in the elderly population [184]. All participants were older