Effect of dual-task training on balance in older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis


ERCAN YILDIZ S., FİDAN Ö., GÜLŞEN Ç., ÇOLAK E., Genc G. A.

Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics, vol.121, 2024 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Review
  • Volume: 121
  • Publication Date: 2024
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.archger.2024.105368
  • Journal Name: Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, ASSIA, Abstracts in Social Gerontology, BIOSIS, CAB Abstracts, CINAHL, EMBASE, Psycinfo, Veterinary Science Database
  • Keywords: Balance, Balance training, Dual-task, Dual-task training, Older adults
  • Hacettepe University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Purpose: Our review aims to analyze the effect of dual-task training (DTT) on balance in healthy older adults. Methods: PubMed, EbscoHost, Web of Science (WOS), Scopus, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EBSCO Open Dissertations, ULAKBIM (TR Index) and YOK (Council of Higher Education Thesis Center) databases and the gray literature were searched. The quality of the studies was assessed with the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and statistical analysis of the data was performed with Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) software. A funnel plot and Egger's test were used to detect publication bias. Fourteen studies with 691 participants were included. Results: According to the results of our study, DTT was found to have a significant benefit on balance in older adults than the non-intervention group (standardized mean difference (SMD): -0.691: -1.153, -0.229, 95 % confidence interval (CI)). Furthermore, DTT was superior to different intervention groups in improving balance in older adults (SMD: -0.229: -0.441, -0.016, 95 % CI). Conclusion: The findings of this review suggest that DTT may be an effective intervention to improve balance in healthy older adults.