The Block Transfer Test is a manual dexterity test or coordination test of fine motor abilities. This test is part of the protocol for the Groningen Fitness Test for the Elderly, and is derived from the Minnesota Rate of Manipulation Test (American Guidance Service, 1969).

What Does the Block Transfer Test Measure?

The Block Transfer Test specifically measures manual dexterity, which encompasses the speed and coordination of hand movements during object manipulation tasks. This assessment evaluates several key components of upper limb function that are essential for maintaining independence in daily activities among elderly adults.

Test Purpose: To measure manual dexterity, fine motor coordination, and hand-eye coordination speed in elderly populations. The test provides objective data on functional hand abilities that directly relate to activities of daily living.

Equipment Required

Equipment required: Two boards (56.5 x 23 x 2.4 cm), each punctuated with 40 holes (diameter 4 cm, depth 1.1 cm), and 40 blocks (diameter 3.5 cm, height 2.2 cm). The standardized equipment ensures consistent testing conditions across different settings.

How to Perform the Block Transfer Test

Pre-test: Explain the test procedures to the subject. Perform screening of health risks and obtain informed consent. Prepare forms and record basic information such as age, height, body weight, gender, test conditions. Perform an appropriate warm-up. See more details of pre-test procedures.

Procedure: The participant begins by sitting at a table with the two boards in front of them. Timing begins when the participant starts to move the 40 blocks from the first board to the second board, which is linked to the first board and farther away. The blocks must be moved in a prescribed sequence as quickly as possible using the preferred hand. The participant should practice with five blocks prior to the trial.

Scoring: The time (in seconds) to complete the task is recorded. Lower times indicate better manual dexterity performance. Use our calculator above to interpret your score against age-appropriate norms.

Understanding Block Transfer Test Scores

Ages 55-64

Excellent: <25 seconds
Good: 25-28 seconds
Average: 28-35 seconds
Below Average: 35-45 seconds

Ages 65-74

Excellent: <30 seconds
Good: 30-35 seconds
Average: 35-45 seconds
Below Average: 45-55 seconds

Ages 75-84

Excellent: <35 seconds
Good: 35-42 seconds
Average: 42-55 seconds
Below Average: 55-70 seconds

Ages 85+

Excellent: <42 seconds
Good: 42-52 seconds
Average: 52-65 seconds
Below Average: 65-85 seconds

Why Manual Dexterity Testing Matters for Seniors

Manual dexterity is crucial for maintaining independence in daily life. Research published in the Journal of Gerontology demonstrates that declining manual dexterity can serve as an early indicator of neurodegenerative conditions and increased fall risk. Regular assessment using standardized tests like the Block Transfer Test helps identify functional decline early, allowing for timely intervention.

The Block Transfer Test is particularly valuable because it assesses gross arm and hand movements during rapid eye-hand coordination tasks, which directly translate to real-world activities such as dressing, eating, writing, and handling household objects.

The Science Behind the Block Transfer Test

The Block Transfer Test is derived from the Minnesota Rate of Manipulation Test (MRMT), developed by the American Guidance Service in 1969. The Groningen Fitness Test for the Elderly adapted this methodology specifically for older adult populations, with research by Lemmink et al. (2001) establishing its reliability and validity.

"The test-retest reliability of the Block Transfer Test is satisfactory, with intraclass correlation coefficients ranging from 0.79 to 0.87. A learning effect was observed, indicating that practice trials should be executed to obtain accurate baseline measurements."
— Lemmink KAP et al., Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, 2001

Applications for Athletes and Active Seniors

While originally designed for general elderly fitness assessment, the Block Transfer Test has applications across various activity levels:

Masters Athletes

Track hand-eye coordination for sports like golf, tennis, or bowling where fine motor control affects performance.

Rehabilitation

Monitor recovery progress after stroke, injury, or surgery affecting upper limb function.

Occupational Fitness

Assess readiness for tasks requiring manual dexterity in volunteer work or part-time employment.

Improving Your Block Transfer Test Score

Manual dexterity can be improved with targeted exercises and activities. Research supports the following approaches for enhancing fine motor coordination in older adults:

  • Hand Strengthening Exercises: Squeezing therapy balls or putty for 5-10 minutes daily strengthens grip and improves coordination
  • Finger Dexterity Drills: Practice touching each fingertip to your thumb in sequence, gradually increasing speed
  • Craft Activities: Knitting, sewing, painting, or model building engage fine motor pathways
  • Card and Board Games: Shuffling cards, moving game pieces, and handling chips require precision movements
  • Musical Instruments: Playing piano, guitar, or other instruments challenges hand coordination
  • Tai Chi and Qigong: These practices improve overall coordination and body awareness

Disadvantages: The blocks specifically for this test need to be obtained from specialized suppliers, which may limit accessibility for home testing.

Target Population: This test was designed specifically for the elderly population, typically adults 55 years and older.

Comments: One or more practice trials should be conducted to avoid a learning effect. Research indicates that scores improve significantly between first and subsequent attempts, making practice trials essential for accurate assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good Block Transfer Test score for elderly adults?

For adults aged 55-64, excellent performance is under 25 seconds, while average is 28-35 seconds. For those 75+, excellent is under 35 seconds with average being 42-55 seconds. Scores naturally increase with age due to declining fine motor skills.

How do I perform the Block Transfer Test correctly?

Sit at a table with two boards containing 40 holes each. Transfer 40 blocks from the first board to the second board (farther away) in a prescribed sequence using your preferred hand. Time begins when you start moving blocks and ends when all 40 are transferred. Complete a practice trial with 5 blocks first.

What does the Block Transfer Test measure?

The Block Transfer Test measures manual dexterity and fine motor coordination. It assesses hand-eye coordination, movement speed, and precision - all important factors for maintaining independence in daily activities like dressing, eating, and handling objects.

Why is manual dexterity testing important for seniors?

Manual dexterity is essential for activities of daily living. Research shows that declining dexterity can predict increased fall risk and may indicate early signs of neurodegenerative conditions. Regular testing helps identify functional decline early when intervention is most effective.

How can I improve my Block Transfer Test score?

Practice hand exercises like squeezing therapy balls, picking up small objects, and doing finger dexterity drills. Activities like knitting, card games, and puzzles also help. Regular practice with the test itself shows improvement due to learning effects.

Is the Block Transfer Test scientifically validated?

Yes, the Block Transfer Test is part of the Groningen Fitness Test for the Elderly, developed by the University of Groningen. Research published in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity confirms satisfactory test-retest reliability with intraclass correlation coefficients of 0.79-0.87.

How often should I take the Block Transfer Test?

For general monitoring, testing every 3-6 months is appropriate. If using for rehabilitation progress, more frequent testing may be warranted. Always include practice trials to minimize learning effects that can confound results.

References

  1. Lemmink, K.A.P., Kemper, H., de Greef, M.H.G., Rispens, P., & Stevens, M. (2001). Reliability of the Groningen Fitness Test for the Elderly. Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, 9, 194-212.
  2. American Guidance Service. (1969). Minnesota Rate of Manipulation Test: Examiner's manual. Circle Pines, MN: Circle Pines.
  3. Desrosiers, J., Rochette, A., Hébert, R., & Bravo, G. (1997). The Minnesota Manual Dexterity Test: Reliability, validity and reference values studies with healthy elderly people. Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy, 64(5), 270-276.
  4. University of Groningen, Department of Human Movement Sciences. (1995). The Groningen fitness test for the elderly: field based motor fitness assessment for adults over 55 years. University of Groningen, The Netherlands.
  5. Tesio, L., Simone, A., Zebellin, G., Rota, V., Malfitano, C., & Perucca, L. (2016). Bimanual dexterity assessment: validation of a revised form of the turning subtest from the Minnesota Dexterity Test. International Journal of Rehabilitation Research, 39(1), 57-62.
  6. Darweesh, S.K., et al. (2017). Simple Test of Manual Dexterity Can Help to Identify Persons at High Risk for Neurodegenerative Diseases. The Journals of Gerontology, 72(1), 75-81.
  7. Varela, S., Ayán, C., & Cancela, J.M. (2008). Batteries assessing health related fitness in the elderly: a brief review. European Review of Aging and Physical Activity, 5, 97-109.

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