Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test: Normative Reference Values for Ages 20 to 59 Years and Relationships With Physical and...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Physical Therapy
• Public Health

Background:

• The Timed Up and Go (TUG) test is a validated measure of functional mobility.
• Normative reference values (NRV) for the TUG are lacking for adults under 60.
• Establishing NRV is crucial for early detection of mobility decline.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish TUG NRV for adults aged 20-59 years.
• To investigate the association between TUG performance and demographic, physical, and mental health factors.
• To inform primary care providers on using the TUG in younger adult populations.

Main Methods:

• Two hundred participants (50 per decade, ages 20-59) were recruited from primary care.
• Participants performed the TUG test, involving standing, walking 3m, turning, and sitting.
• Data on socioeconomic status, BMI, comorbidities, and perceived health were collected.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in TUG times were observed across age decades, with slower times in older groups.
• Slower TUG times correlated with lower socioeconomic status, higher BMI, and increased comorbidities.
• Perceived physical and mental health uniquely predicted TUG time beyond age and SES.

Conclusions:

• This study provides TUG NRV for adults aged 20-59.
• The TUG test can be a valuable tool for primary care to assess mobility in younger adults.
• Identifying individuals with risk factors for mobility decline is enhanced by TUG assessment.