Citation

Faulkner KA, Redfern MS, Rosano C, Landsittel DP, Studenski SA, Cauley JA, Zmuda JM, Simonsick EM, Kritchevsky SB, Newman AB. Gait Posture 2006; 24(2): 182-189.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.gaitpost.2005.08.004

PMID

16168655

Abstract

This study investigated how cognitive and walking performance are influenced when performed concurrently in older adults and what factors are associated with poorer dual-task responses. Using a dual-task study design, 217 subjects aged 74-85 years completed three information processing test conditions--(1) no test; (2) push-button simple reaction-time; and (3) visual-spatial decision reaction-time; and three walking test conditions--(1) seated; (2) walking over a 20m straight course; and (3) walking over 20m with a turn. Push-button and visual-spatial reaction-times increased approximately 21% and 6%, respectively, while walking compared to sitting (p<0.008). Reaction-time tests had a relatively weak impact on walking-time. Poorer dual-task walking-time responses correlated with slower walking velocity and weaker muscle strength (p< or =.062). Findings suggest that walking requires significant cognitive resources among older adults and slower-walking adults and weaker adults may require higher cognitive loading while walking.