Effect of Dual-Task Training (Fixed Priority-Versus-Variable Priority) for Improving Balance in Older Adults

Journal Article

• Publication Work Type: reserch paper
• Publication Online URL: Effect of Dual-Task Training (Fixed Priority-Versus-Variable Priority) for Improving Balance in Older Adults
• Magazine \ Newspaper: journal
• Issue Number: 6
• Volume Number: 20
• Pages: 884-888

Publication Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of 2 different instructional sets of dual task training conditions, fixed-priority instruction (FP) versus variable-priority instruction (VP) on dual task performance in older adults with balance impairment. Community dwelling older adults (n=30) with balance impairment who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were included for the study. The subjects were explained about the purpose and nature of the study. All participants received 45-minute training sessions, 3 times a week for 4 weeks. Dependent variables Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Activities based Confidence Scale (ABC) were measured before and after 4 week training program. Significant interaction and main effects were further explained by paired and unpaired t-test and wilcoxon test. Within groups, analysis showed that there is improvement in BBS and ABC scores after 4 weeks training programs in both groups. Between groups, analysis showed that there is significant improvement (P 0.05) of both BBS and ABC scores in VP (variable priority) group when compared to FP (fixed priority) group. Dual task balance training under variable priority is more effective in improving balance of older adults.