ArticlePloS one2023
The relationship between visual function and physical performance in the Study of Muscle, Mobility and Aging (SOMMA).
Article in PloS one, 2023. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 7 papers.
What it found
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The abstract states no effect estimate the extractor could read, or names no intervention and outcome on the map, so this paper lights no cell and moves no belief. It is still indexed, cited and linked below.
The trial behind it
Trials whose registry record cites this paper, or whose number appears in the abstract. A trial that started after this paper was published is citing it as background, not reporting it.
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Who cites it
7 citing papers in PubMed, 9 citations in OpenAlex.
- Contrast Sensitivity Impairment Is Associated With Limitations of Physical Functioning and Activities of Daily Living Among Older Adults.Journal of aging and health · 2026Article
- A Clinically Relevant Threshold of Impaired Contrast Sensitivity Among Older US Adults.JAMA ophthalmology · 2026Article
- Visual Search Behavior During Toileting in Older Patients During the Action-Planning Stage.Journal of functional morphology and kinesiology · 2025Article
- The Effect of Muscle Strength and Visual Contrast Sensitivity on Fall Risk Sway Velocity Index.Journal of frailty, sarcopenia and falls · 2025Article
- Moderate Impairment in Binocular Contrast Sensitivity Predicts Faster Mobility Decline in Cognitively Unimpaired Older Adults.Journal of the American Geriatrics Society · 2025Article
- Relationship of Multiple Sensory Impairments With Physical Performance in Older Adults in the Study of Muscle, Mobility and Aging.The journals of gerontology. Series A, Biological sciences and medical sciences · 2025Article
- Article
Corrections and comments
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Authors and funding
8 authors at 4 institutions in 1 country.
Funding
Abstract
purposeThe relationship of types of visual function to different aspects of physical function, especially strength and coordination, has been understudied, but delineation of these relationships could suggest potentially modifiable targets prior to the onset of disability.
methodsCross-sectional analysis of visual function (self-reported eyesight and eye disease, visual acuity, contrast sensitivity) and physical function tests in 877 older adults (mean age 76.36±5.01 years, 59.2% women, and 13.3% Black race). Separate linear regression models were constructed for short physical performance battery (SPPB), expanded SPPB (eSPPB), their components (gait speed, chair stand, balance, narrow walk), stair climb, four-square step, leg extension peak power and strength, and grip strength.
resultsIn adjusted models, worse acuity, worse contrast sensitivity, and self-reported poor vision were significantly associated with worse performance on the eSPPB and four-square step test. Worse contrast sensitivity, but not acuity, was significantly associated with shorter balance times, slower chair stand pace, longer stair climb time, and worse SPPB score. Associations of worse acuity and contrast sensitivity with weaker leg extension power, leg strength, and grip strength were attenuated by covariate adjustment. Self-reported macular degeneration, but not cataract or glaucoma, was associated with worse performance on SPPB, eSPPB, balance, stair climb, and four-square step tests in adjusted models. Worse contrast sensitivity and macular degeneration remained associated with worse SPPB and balance after controlling for visual acuity and self-reported eyesight.
conclusionsPoor contrast sensitivity was more strongly associated with worse physical performance than acuity, especially for complex tasks that dynamically challenge coordination and balance. Future studies should examine if older adults with contrast sensitivity impairment would benefit from targeted intervention to decrease their risk of disability.
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Registered trials
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