Normative Values and Measurement Properties of the Bed Bridge Test.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Biometrics

Background:

• Functional capacity assessment is crucial for healthy aging.
• The Bed Bridge Test (BBT) is a functional measure.
• Normative data and validated equations are needed for BBT variants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish normative values and reference equations for four BBT variants.
• To evaluate the reliability and validity of these BBT variants.
• To provide tools for assessing functional capacity in healthy adults.

Main Methods:

• Methodological cross-sectional study involving 120 healthy adults (18-79 years).
• Participants performed four randomized BBT variants: 5XBBT, 10XBBT, 30sBBT, and 60sBBT.
• Data analyzed for normative values, reference equations, reliability (ICC), and validity.

Main Results:

• Normative values were established, showing performance decline with age and higher scores in men.
• Reference equations were developed, explaining 29-46% of performance variability.
• All BBT variants showed excellent reliability (ICC=0.87-0.95) and supported criterion validity.

Conclusions:

• BBT variants demonstrate reliable and valid assessment of functional capacity in healthy adults.
• Normative values and reference equations aid clinical interpretation and rehabilitation.
• These tools can help identify functional limitations, especially in those with reduced mobility.