Mortality, falls and slow walking speed are predicted by different muscle strength and physical performance measures in women and men

•We explored which measures best predict mortality, falls, and slow walking speed in older adults.•Age and walking speed were most important predictors for mortality in women.•Quadriceps strength was the most important predictor for mortality in men.•In both sexes, the sit-to-stand test was the most important predictor for falls.•Mortality, falls and slow walking speed are predicted by different variables in women and men.