In clinical practice, what is a common TUG cutoff that indicates higher fall risk in older adults?

• A. Often around >12–13 seconds; some populations use >14 seconds depending on function and context.
• B. <8 seconds.
• C. Around 10 seconds exactly.
• D. >20 seconds in all populations.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test is a quick mobility screen where longer completion times reflect slower, less stable movement and higher fall risk. In clinical practice, a common threshold signaling greater fall risk in older adults is around 12 to 13 seconds. Some clinicians use a cutoff of 14 seconds in certain populations or contexts, because the exact line can shift based on age, functional level, cognitive status, and whether the person uses an assistive device or lives in a more or less demanding environment.

Times shorter than this range typically indicate better functional mobility, while very long times (such as 20 seconds or more) may indicate more substantial impairment, but the universal cutoff isn’t fixed across all groups. That variability is why the 12–13 second range, with possible adjustment to about 14 seconds depending on context, is considered the best-supported rule of thumb for flagging higher fall risk.