Effects of individual progressive single- and dual-task training on gait and cognition among older healthy adults: a randomized-controlled comparison study

Abstract

Key summary pointsAim With this study, we aimed to compare the effects of single- and dual-task training on gait and cognition among healthy older individuals, which can be adjusted weekly according to the individual's functional performance. Findings According to the results of the study, the dual-task training group was better compared to the single-task training group in gait speed, cadence, and many cognitive variables. Recommendation Individual progressive dual-task training is an effective and useful method that improves gait performance and cognitive skills among older individuals. It is proposed to implement to maintain normal gait and cognitive function, and prevent possible gait and cognitive disabilities for healthy older individuals. Purpose Dual-task training has beneficial effects on older individuals for gait and cognition. This study was aimed to make a comparison between the effects of individual progressive single- and dual-task training on gait and cognition among healthy older individuals. Methods A total of 32 participants were divided randomly into two groups as the single-task group (n = 16, 64.6 +/- 3.3 years, 7 males and 9 females) and dual-task group (n = 16, 65.6 +/- 2.6 years, 8 males and 8 females). The 10-m walk test with the LEGSys device was used to assess spatio-temporal gait parameters. The cognitive parameters were evaluated using the Standardized Mini-Mental State Exam and Stroop Test. An individual progressive 60 min single- and dual-task training programs were applied twice per week for a period of 6 weeks. Results There were significant differences for both gait and cognition variables in the dual-task training group (p < 0.05), according to the comparison of pre- and post-treatment results. In the single-task training group, there were significant differences only in gait parameters with single-task conditions (p < 0.05). The comparisons of the delta values between the groups indicated that the dual-task training group was better compared to the single-task training group in gait speed, cadence, and many cognitive variables (p < 0.05). Conclusion Individual progressive dual-task training is an effective and useful method that improves gait performance and cognitive skills among older individuals.