Cognitive Processing Speed Impairment Does Not Influence the Construct Validity of Six-Spot Step Test Performance in People With Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Objective: There is evidence supporting the construct validity of Six-Spot Step Test (SSST) performance as a functional mobility measure in people with multiple sclerosis (MS); however, it is unknown if cognitive processing speed impairment confounds the construct validity of SSST performance in MS, as this test seemingly requires intact cognitive processing. The objective of this study was to examine the influence of cognitive processing speed impairment on the construct validity and precision of SSST performance as a functional mobility measure in MS.

Methods: Participants (N = 213) completed the SSST, timed 25-foot walk, 6-Minute Walk Test, Timed "Up and Go" Test, Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale-12, device-measured steps per day, and Late-Life Function and Disability Inventory, Patient-Determined Disease Steps, and the Symbol-Digit Modalities Test as a cognitive processing speed measure. The overall sample was divided into subsamples with (n = 75) and without (n = 138) cognitive processing speed impairment based on normative Symbol-Digit Modalities Test data. Correlations between SSST performance with other mobility outcomes in the overall sample and cognitive processing speed impairment subsamples were examined and compared. SSST performance was compared relative to other mobility measures for differentiating MS walking function levels in people with and without cognitive processing speed impairment.

Results: SSST performance was significantly and strongly correlated with most mobility outcomes in the overall sample and cognitive processing speed impairment subsamples. The magnitudes of correlations between SSST performance with most mobility outcomes were not statistically different among subsamples. Cognitive processing speed impairment did not diminish the relative precision of SSST performance for differentiating walking function levels.

Conclusion: The presence of cognitive processing speed impairment is not a source of invalidity or imprecision when interpreting SSST performance as a functional mobility measure among people with MS.

Impact: The SSST is a high-quality endpoint for inclusion in interventions targeting mobility in MS, regardless of cognitive processing speed status. This information is critical for rehabilitation research and clinical practice given that mobility and cognitive impairment are highly prevalent, co-occurring, and disabling in MS.

Keywords: Cognition; Cognitive Processing Speed; Mobility; Multiple Sclerosis; Six-Spot Step Test.