Detecting subtle mobility changes among older adults: the Quantitative Timed Up and Go test

Background The Quantitative Timed Up and Go (QTUG) test uses wearable sensors, containing a triaxial accelerometer and an add-on triaxial gyroscope, to quantify performance during the TUG test with potential to capture more minor changes in mobility. Aims To examine the responsiveness, minimum detectable change (MDC) and observed effect size of QTUG in a cohort of socially active adults aged 50 years and over participating in a structured community exercise program. Methods 54 participants (91% females, mean age 63.6 ± 6.5 years) completed repeated QTUG testing under single- and dual-task conditions. Responsiveness of the QTUG was assessed by correlation of change in standard TUG with QTUG change (Pearson’s correlation coefficient). MDC and effect sizes (standardized mean difference and Cohen’s d ) were also calculated for QTUG. Results There was a strong positive correlation between change in the standard TUG and change in QTUG (single task r = 0.91, p