Understanding the Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test
The Timed Up and Go (TUG) test is a simple, yet powerful, assessment used by healthcare professionals to evaluate an individual's mobility. It measures the time it takes for a person to stand up from a chair, walk three meters (approximately 10 feet), turn around, walk back to the chair, and sit down again. This easy-to-administer test requires minimal equipment—just a standard chair, a stopwatch, and a clearly marked 3-meter line—and offers valuable insights into a person's risk of falling.
The test is especially crucial for older adults and people with certain health conditions, such as Parkinson's disease or stroke, as it captures the functional mobility required for everyday activities. By tracking TUG scores over time, clinicians can monitor changes in a patient's mobility, assess the effectiveness of interventions, and make informed decisions about care.
What is the Normal Time for the Get Up and Go Test? Age-Based Norms
The definition of a 'normal' TUG test time is not a single, fixed number but rather a range that depends heavily on age and general health. For many healthy older adults, completing the test in 10 to 12 seconds or less is considered normal and indicates good functional mobility. However, specific age-matched norms offer a more detailed benchmark for comparison.
Age-Specific Benchmarks for the TUG Test
- Ages 60–69: The average time is around 8 seconds. Healthy individuals in this age bracket are often mobile and independent.
- Ages 70–79: The mean time is approximately 9 seconds, with a slightly wider range. Good mobility is still expected, though minor balance or gait changes may start to appear.
- Ages 80–89: The average time tends to increase, with studies reporting mean times of 11 seconds or more, even without a walking device. The use of a device, like a cane, can increase the time further.
- Ages 90+: For the most elderly, average times can increase to 14 seconds or more, even for those who are independently mobile without an aid.
Interpreting Your TUG Test Results
Interpreting a TUG score goes beyond simply comparing it to an average time. It involves understanding what different time ranges signify for functional ability and fall risk. While the test is a valuable screening tool, it should not be the sole determinant of a person's fall risk and should be considered alongside other clinical assessments.
TUG Test Score Interpretation Table
| Time (seconds) | Interpretation | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| ≤ 10–12 | Normal mobility; good functional fitness. | Low |
| 13–19 | Mobility limitations; some may need assistance for certain activities. | Moderate |
| ≥ 20 | Significant mobility impairment; requires a walking aid or assistance for many activities. | High |
| ≥ 30 | Severely limited mobility; requires significant assistance for most daily tasks. | Very High |
Factors That Influence Your TUG Time
Several factors can affect an individual's performance on the TUG test, leading to variations in scores that are not strictly related to underlying health issues. These include:
- Procedural Factors: The height of the chair can significantly impact the time, especially for taller individuals who may find it more difficult to rise from a lower seat. Other factors, like timing method and walking distance, are standardized to minimize variation.
- Cognitive Load: The dual-task variations of the TUG test, such as performing a cognitive task (e.g., counting backward) or a manual task (e.g., carrying a cup of water) while walking, can shed light on how well a person can manage mobility under different conditions.
- Assistive Devices: Using a cane or walker will naturally affect a person's TUG score, often increasing the time taken. This information is crucial for accurate interpretation and is always recorded during the test.
- Day-to-Day Fluctuations: Performance can vary based on an individual's energy levels, pain, or medication side effects on a given day. Chronic conditions, like arthritis or poor eyesight, can also play a role.
How to Safely Perform the TUG Test at Home
While a healthcare professional should perform the formal TUG test, it's possible to do a modified version at home for a general self-assessment, provided you have no significant balance issues and have been cleared by your doctor. The test provides a simple baseline measurement of functional mobility and can be repeated periodically to track personal progress.
Here are the steps for a safe at-home TUG test:
- Preparation: Find a sturdy chair with armrests. Mark a line on the floor 3 meters (10 feet) away with tape. Ensure the path is clear of any obstacles.
- Seating Position: Sit in the chair with your back against the backrest and feet flat on the floor.
- The Test: Have a friend or family member with a stopwatch time you from the moment they say "Go." You will stand up, walk to the line, turn, walk back, and sit down again. The timer stops when you are securely seated.
- Recording: Note the time taken. For better accuracy, repeat the test two or three times and calculate the average score, ignoring any practice runs.
Next Steps: What to Do After Your TUG Test
Interpreting your at-home TUG result can be a good starting point for a conversation with your healthcare provider. A time that falls into the moderate or high-risk category (typically 14 seconds or more) warrants a discussion about your mobility and fall risk.
- Professional Evaluation: Your doctor or physical therapist can perform a more comprehensive assessment and determine the best course of action. This may involve further testing or a specialized program to address any underlying issues.
- Mobility Improvement: For those with moderate risk, targeted exercises can significantly improve balance and strength. Consult a physical therapist for a personalized exercise plan that can lead to better TUG scores and a decreased fall risk.
- Environmental Adjustments: Simple modifications to your home, such as removing tripping hazards, installing grab bars, and ensuring adequate lighting, can make a significant difference in fall prevention.
For more resources on fall prevention and mobility, consider exploring the CDC's STEADI program, which provides evidence-based information for older adults and healthcare providers. Taking proactive steps based on your TUG score can help you maintain independence and safety as you age.
Conclusion
In summary, while a normal time for the Get Up and Go Test for healthy older adults is typically less than 12 seconds, interpretation should be viewed within the context of age and other health factors. A single test result is a snapshot of mobility, but tracking your score over time can provide valuable insights. By understanding your score and taking appropriate action, you can work to maintain or improve your functional mobility, reduce your risk of falls, and age with greater independence and confidence.
