From the Guidelines
To perform the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, instruct the patient to rise from a chair, walk 3 meters, turn around, walk back to the chair, and sit down, with a recorded time of >12 seconds associated with increased fall risk. The TUG test is a widely used assessment tool for evaluating mobility and fall risk in older adults, as described in a recent study published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings 1.
Key Steps to Perform the TUG Test:
- Instruct the patient to rise from a chair
- Walk 3 meters
- Turn around
- Walk back to the chair
- Sit down The test should be performed with the patient using their normal pace and may use their usual walking aid if needed.
Interpretation of Results:
A recorded time of >12 seconds is associated with increased fall risk, as indicated in the study 1. It is essential to note that the TUG test assesses balance, gait speed, and functional ability, providing a quick screening tool for fall risk and mobility issues in older adults. Some key points to consider when performing the TUG test include:
- The patient should be instructed to perform the test at their normal pace
- The use of a walking aid is allowed if the patient normally uses one
- The test should be performed in a safe and clear area to minimize the risk of falls
- The results of the TUG test should be interpreted in conjunction with other assessment tools and clinical judgment to determine the patient's overall fall risk and mobility status.
From the Research
Procedure for Performing the Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test
The TUG test is a reliable and cost-effective way to evaluate overall functional mobility 2. The procedure for performing the TUG test involves:
- Standing up from a chair
- Walking 3 meters
- Turning around
- Walking back to the chair
- Sitting down
Key Considerations
- The type of chair used can influence test results, with chairs having armrests and a seating height of 44-47 cm recommended 3
- The use of a portable canvas chair with standardized specifications can be an acceptable alternative to a standard chair in field settings 4
- Factors such as use of a walking aid, observed difficulty with mobility, and history of arthritis in the knees can impact test performance 4
Administration of the Test
- The test should be administered by experienced clinicians or trained personnel
- The test can be used to assess balance and risk of falls in various populations, including older adults and individuals with autism spectrum disorder 5, 6
- The test results can be used to evaluate motor challenges and monitor physical activity in individuals with physical and mental health risk factors 2