Test-Retest Reliability of the Triangle Completion Test

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Neuroscience
• Biomechanics

Background:

• The Triangle Completion Test (TCT) is a clinical tool assessing spatial navigation and its link to vestibular function.
• Limited data exist on the statistical reliability of the TCT, impacting its clinical utility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the test-retest reliability of the Triangle Completion Test (TCT) in older adults.
• To determine the consistency of TCT measurements over a short interval.

Main Methods:

• A test-retest reliability study was conducted with 20 participants aged 60+.
• Participants completed four TCT trials in two sessions, separated by three hours, measuring endpoint error and angular deviation.

Main Results:

• Angular deviation demonstrated fair test-retest reliability (ICC=0.72), with a minimal detectable change (MDC) of 7.13 degrees.
• Endpoint error exhibited poor reliability (ICC=0.05) with a high MDC of 144.7 cm.

Conclusions:

• TCT angular deviation shows potential for reliable spatial navigation assessment in older adults.
• Endpoint error measurement in the TCT requires significant refinement for clinical application and standardization.