Switching Ability Mediates the Age-Related Difference in Timed Up and Go Performance

Abstract

Age-related mobility and cognitive declines are closely linked, but their relationship is complex and needs to be further investigated. The study aimed to test if cognition (processing speed, inhibition and switching performances) mediates the age-related difference in mobility. Mediation analyses were used to test whether processing speed, inhibition and switching performances on the Stroop test independently mediate the relationship between age and performances at the Timed Up and Go (TUG). Results revealed that only switching performances mediated the age-related difference in TUG (65.1% of the total effect) supporting the notion that executive control plays a critical role in older adults' mobility.