Feasibility study of dual-task-managing training to improve gait performance of older adults

Introduction Dual task (DT) training is becoming prominent in fall prevention. However, DT training should include task-managing strategies like task switching or task prioritization to be beneficial to improve gait performance under DT conditions. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the effect of a task managing training on gait stability. Methods A DT training (12 sessions; 60 min each; 12 weeks) was compared to a non-training control group within a RCT (38 independent living participants; 72.7 +/- 4.7 years). Single Task (ST) and DT walking (visual verbal Stroop task) were measured on a treadmill (FDM-T, 3.5 km/h, 100 HZ). Gait parameters like step length, step width, gait line, maximum forces and gait variability were compared. Results The training group improved their gait performance under ST and DT conditions as revealed by significant group x time interaction effects. Discussion and conclusions The training successfully improved gait performance and therefore might be a promising approach to prevent falls. Additional fall prevention studies should focus on motor-cognitive performance and reinforce outcomes of task managing strategies.