Dual-task intervention based on trail making test: Effects on Parkinson's disease

Abstract

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention with dual task based on trail making test on gait, cognition and daily activities execution in individuals with Parkinson's disease. DesignRandomized controlled trial. Methodology10 individuals with Parkinson's Disease (PD) were divided into dual task group (DTG) and control group (CG). Were realized 16 dual task (DT) training sessions based on the Trail Making Test (TMT) for DTG and a conventional training protocol for CG. Pre and post intervention assessments used the 6 minute walk test (T6), TMT, Katz Index and Falls Efficacy Scale (FES). ResultsComparing the difference between pre and post intervention values between groups, there was no significant difference for T6 (p=0,36). In TMT there was a significant difference (p=0,03), showing shorter times for DTG. The tests used for time values in the Katz index tasks showed an important difference for the DTG (P=0,02). As for the results of the FES, they did not show pre and post changes in the DTG (0,45) and in the CG (p= 0,29) and not even between the groups (p=0,45). ConclusionThe proposed intervention was able to promote improvements in the performance of daily life activities, learning adaptations and retention of motor and cognitive aspects, which may reflect positively in the daily lives of patients with PD and, consequently, greater autonomy to perform these types of activities.