Final answer:
A walking speed of 0.6 to 0.8 meters per second may predict poor functional outcomes and reduced life expectancy. This is significantly lower than the moderate walking pace of 5 km/h. Walking speed is a vital health metric, especially for assessing mobility in older adults.
Step-by-step explanation:
The walking speed that may be predictive of poor functional outcomes and reduced life expectancy is c. 0.6 to 0.8 meters per second. Walking speeds slower than this range are often associated with decreased mobility and independence, and they may indicate underlying health issues or a higher risk of adverse health events. In contrast, a walking speed above this threshold is generally considered healthier and indicative of better functional status in adults.
To put it into perspective, a walking speed of 0.6 m/s is equivalent to walking at approximately 2.16 km/h (1.34 mph), which is slower than what is typically considered a moderate walking pace of around 5 km/h (3.1 mph). Monitoring and measuring this walking speed can be done by timing yourself over a fixed distance and converting the time into speed in meters per second or miles per hour. This can be an important metric for healthcare professionals to assess mobility in older adults.