Every step your patients take tells a story. But when it comes to functional assessments, one test often doesn’t tell you enough. Enter cluster testing — a simple but powerful approach that delivers clearer insights and better care decisions.

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What is Cluster Testing?

Cluster testing is the practice of combining multiple related functional assessments to evaluate a clinical issue more holistically. Instead of relying on one data point, you use several — each offering a different angle on the same challenge, like balance, strength, or mobility.

For example, if you’re assessing fall risk, a single TUG test gives you some insight. But pairing it with a 30-second Sit-to-Stand and a Dual-Task Walk paints a more complete picture. Cluster testing turns snapshots into a story.

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Why It Matters

Relying on a single assessment can lead to missed cues — especially when patients compensate or when contextual factors mask deficits. Cluster testing:

• Increases diagnostic sensitivity
  Multiple tests reduce false negatives and help surface hidden impairments.
• Enhances confidence in clinical decisions
  When multiple tests point to the same issue, it’s easier to justify care — and act on it.
• Supports defensible documentation
  More data = stronger narratives for reimbursement and interdisciplinary communication.
• Improves outcomes
  Better assessments lead to more targeted interventions — and ultimately, better patient trajectories.

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Cluster Testing + OneStep = Streamlined and Scalable

The challenge? Traditional testing can be time-consuming and hard to scale. That’s where OneStep makes it easy.

With just a smartphone, you can administer the standard test clusters necessary to accurately predict falls including: 

• Timed Up and Go → captures functional mobility
• 30-Second Sit to Stand → reflects lower extremity strength
• Dual-Task Walk → assesses cognitive-motor interaction
• 6 Minute Walk → demonstrates endurance capabilities
• Gait analysis (specifically speed, variability, and symmetry) → reveals subtle neuromotor impairments and inconsistencies

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OneStep also automatically captures real-world, validated metrics like gait speed, variability, and asymmetry –  no stopwatches, wearables, or extra tools needed. You’ll get objective scores and clear trends, instantly.

Even better? You can cluster tests together during a session — or across time — and track progress with a single, integrated view.

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For Senior Living and Rehab: Why This Matters Now

Whether you’re screening new residents, monitoring decline, or supporting therapy plans, cluster testing helps you:

• Spot issues earlier
• Tailor interventions with precision
• Strengthen referrals with objective data
• Defend and extend care when appropriate

And when you pair that with OneStep’s ability to monitor mobility continuously, you go beyond “point-in-time” to “always-on” insight.

The bottom line? Cluster testing gives you sharper tools. OneStep makes those tools easy to use. And your patients get better outcomes.

Contact us to schedule a meeting. 

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