Abstract
Background: Dual-task (DT) training is a well-accepted modality for fall prevention in older adults. DT training should include task-managing strategies such as task switching or task prioritization to improve gait performance under DT conditions.Methods: We conducted a randomized controlled trial to evaluate a balance and task managing training (BDT group) in gait performance compared to a single task (ST) strength and resistance training and a control group, which received no training. A total of 78 older individuals (72.0 ± 4.9 years) participated in this study. The DT group performed task managing training incorporating balance and coordination tasks while the ST group performed resistance training only. Training consisted of 12 weekly sessions, 60 min each, for 12 weeks. We assessed the effects of ST and BDT training on walking performance under ST and DT conditions in independent living elderly adults. ST and DT walking (visual verbal Stroop task) were measured utilizing a treadmill at self-selected walking speed (mean for all groups: 4.4 ± 1 km h-1). Specific gait variables, cognitive performance, and fear of falling were compared between all groups.>Results: Training improved gait performance for step length (p < 0.001) and gait-line (ST: p < 0.01; DT p < 0.05) in both training groups. The BDT training group showed greater improvements in step length (p < 0.001) and gait-line (p < 0.01) during DT walking but did not have changes in cognitive performance. Both interventions reduced fear of falling (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Implementation of task management strategies into balance and strength training in our population revealed a promising modality to prevent falls in older individuals.Trial registration: German register of clinical trials DRKS00012382.
Highlights
For elderly people, the prevention of falling and the ability to walk safely are among the most important factors for social interaction and participation in activities of daily living (Amadori et al, 2014)
The BDT group showed the largest increase in step length for both feet (BDT training left: +7.18 cm, right: +6.65 cm; strength and resistance training left: +0.54 cm, right: +0.21 cm; control left: −0.74 cm, right: −0.74 cm; p < 0.001) with accompanying and improved gait-line (BDT left: +20.28 mm, right: +21.93 mm; strength and resistance training left: −5.64 mm, right: −3.64 mm; control left: +5.92 mm, right: +4.13 mm; p < 0.01)
The results of this study revealed significantly increased step length in both intervention groups after 12 practice sessions accompanied with a reduced step width in single task (ST) and DT condition, while the control group (CG) reduced their step width only
Summary
The prevention of falling and the ability to walk safely are among the most important factors for social interaction and participation in activities of daily living (Amadori et al, 2014). Gait is not executed in isolation, and it is more likely to be part of a dual or multitask activity whereby the walking is merged with additional cognitive or motor tasks (Faulkner et al, 2007). These dual-task (DT) conditions cause so-called dual-task costs (DTC) that are responsible for scaled down performances in one or both tasks when compared to a ST condition as a result of amplified cognitive demands (Woollacott and Shumway-Cook, 2002; Al-Yahya et al, 2010; Beurskens and Bock, 2012). DT training should include task-managing strategies such as task switching or task prioritization to improve gait performance under DT conditions
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
