Effects of a single and dual-task exercise program on physical, cognitive, and psychosocial functions in older adults
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11606/issn.2317-0190.v33e244714Keywords:
Aged, Exercise, Multitasking Behavior, Postural Balance, GaitAbstract
Objective: To evaluate the effects of a physical exercise program conducted under single and dual-task conditions on physical-functional, cognitive, and psychosocial variables in older adults. Method: This was a prospective experimental study involving 22 older women participating in an extension project at a university in Southern Brazil. The intervention consisted of an in-person physical exercise program lasting 10 weeks, including individually progressed activities under both single and dual-task conditions. Participants were assessed before and after the intervention for cognitive performance (MoCA), fear of falling (FES-I), balance (Berg Balance Scale), gait (4-meter gait speed and Dynamic Gait Index), and functional mobility (simple TUG and dual-task TUG). Results: Statistically significant improvements were observed in the Dynamic Gait Index (p= 0.03) and Berg Balance Scale (p= 0.02) scores, with moderate effect sizes. No significant changes were found in the other variables. Conclusion: The single- and dual-task exercise program proved effective in improving balance and gait in physically active older women, suggesting its applicability as a strategy for promoting functionality and preventing falls.
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