The Effect of Different Dual-Task Balance Training Methods on Balance and Cognitive Function of Older Adults

Abstract

Background: This research aims to investigate the effectiveness of different dual-task training methods on balance and cognitive function in the elderly. Methods: The participants in this study were 36 elderly individuals aged 65 years and older who met the research entry criteria. The selected individuals were divided into three groups, 12 people each, based on the pre-test Berg balance scores. The research groups included two dual-task balance training groups, one with fixed and one with variable priority, and a control group. The Berg balance test was used to assess functional balance in the elderly, and the serial reaction time test was used to assess cognitive function. Data analysis was conducted using covariance analysis and the Bonferroni post hoc test. Results: The data analysis showed no significant difference between the control group and the dual task groups with fixed and variable priority in the balance test. The serial reaction time test results indicated a significant difference between the control group and the dual-task practice groups with fixed and variable priority. Moreover, there was a significant difference between the two dual-task practice groups post-intervention. Conclusion: This research demonstrated that dual-task training, particularly with variable priority, resulted in faster information processing in the elderly. Therefore, it appears that, in addition to the theory of limited attention capacity, other mechanisms, such as the allocated attentional ability, can effectively impact cognitive performance.