Effects of Dual-Task Training on Gait Parameters in Elderly Patients with Mild Dementia

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of dual-task training (DTT) compared to single-task training (STT), on gait parameters in elderly patients with mild dementia (MD). Twenty-four elderly patients with MD were randomly assigned to the DTT (n = 13) or the STT group (n = 11). The DTT group performed a specific cognitive-motor DTT, while the STT group received only motor task training. Both training sessions lasted 8 weeks, with a frequency of 3 days per week, and the cognitive functions and gait parameters were measured. A statistically significant interaction effect was found between the two groups in stride length, stride velocity, cadence, step length, swing phase, stance phase, and double support phase (p < 0.05). After 8 weeks, the DTT group showed significant improvement in spatiotemporal parameters, except for the kinematic parameters (p < 0.05). In the between-group analysis, the DTT group showed more improvement than the STT group in stride velocity, step length, swing phase, stance phase, and double support (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that improvements in spatiotemporal gait parameters after DTT are reported in patients with MD. Our results can guide therapists to include dual tasks in their gait rehabilitation programs for the treatment of mild dementia.

The Role of Physical Activity in Adjunctive Nursing Management of Neuro-Degenerative Diseases among Older Adults: A Systematic Review of Interventional Studies

“…We screened all of these records and excluded 56 based on titles and abstracts, leaving 475 articles for full-text eligibility assessment. Upon detailed review, we excluded 388 articles for not meeting our specific inclusion criteria, resulting in 19 studies being included in the final review [47][48][49][50][51][52][53][54][55][56][57][58][59][60][61][62][63][64][65]. Each of these 19 studies was accounted for in our report, ensuring a comprehensive and transparent documentation of our systematic review process, as shown in Figure 1.…”

“…The risk of bias assessment shown in Figure 2 reflects a thorough evaluation of 19 studies included in the systematic review [47][48][49][50][51][52][53][54][55][56][57][58][59][60][61][62][63][64][65] In conclusion, the aggregate evidence from the risk of bias assessment points to a predominantly reliable and methodologically sound collection of studies, with isolated issues that warrant careful consideration. The overall low risk of bias across the majority of studies provides a solid foundation for drawing reliable conclusions in the systematic review, while the few instances of higher risk or some concerns emphasize the need for a cautious and balanced interpretation of some individual study outcomes.…”

“…Multiple [60,61]. Koo, Jang, and Kwon (2021) showed that dual-task gait training significantly improved stride length, velocity, and phase time versus single-task training in older adults with mild dementia, highlighting its potential to bolster mobility [51].…”

Exploring barriers and educational needs in implementing dual-task training for Parkinson’s disease: insights from professionals

“…Combining interventions at both these levels through the use of dual or multitasking exercises may thus provide a useful new approach for the treatment of older adults (12)(13)(14) and PD patients (15)(16)(17)(18).…”

“…Previous studies have demonstrated that dual-task training (DTT) can improve executive function, gait, and balance and reduce the risk of falls and overall functional capacity in older adults (13,14,22) and people with PD (23-28).…”