Effects of dual-task group training on movements, mental performance and quality of life in patients with Parkinson’s disease

The study analyzed the outcomes of dual-task training (DTT) in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). The main finding was that DTT led to improved movements and perceived quality of life (QoL) in such patients, compared to single-task physiotherapy.

DTT means performing 2 tasks simultaneously, for example, cognitive (thinking and reasoning) and motor (movement-related) tasks. Patients with PD have an impaired capacity to do 2 tasks at the same time. This affects their movements and QoL. Their executive cognitive functions (ECF) get affected as well. ECF defines the higher-level mental skills required to make judgments.

Previous studies demonstrated that combining cognitive and movement training improved outcomes in such patients. However, evidence comparing DTT in groups vs single-task training (STT) is lacking.

The study included 40 patients with PD. 23 patients received DTT and 17 received STT. Both physiotherapies were given twice a week through 20 one-hour sessions. DTT included walking exercises and cognitive tasks. It was conducted in groups of up to 10 persons. STT did not include cognitive training. Analyses were performed before and after treatment, and at 8-weeks follow-up.

Movement speed was improved in the DTT group. This was consistent during the 8-week follow-up under all conditions. The STT group showed improvements only in movement, which was maintained at the follow-up. Movement speed during and after treatment was higher under DTT compared to STT.

Stride length refers to the distance traveled by a person during a particular movement. Stride length increased in both groups following treatment. The GTT achieved longer strides compared to the STT group. The number of steps by minute also improved significantly in the DTT group after training and was maintained until the follow-up.

The ECF was assessed by performing a cognitive test. Its execution time was increased in the STT group after treatment, but not in DTT. Perceived QoL measures a person’s individual perception of life based on fundamental needs. Perceived QoL was better in the DTT group after treatment.

The authors concluded that DTT improved movement-related performance and perceived QoL in patients with PD.

This study was performed in 2 centers in Spain only. It also did not include patients with cognitive disorders.