Dual Task Training in Parkinson's Disease

Effect of Dual Task Training on Balance, Gait, Cognition and Neurotrophic Factors in Parkinson's Disease

The aim of study is to analyze the effects of dual task training on balance, gait, cognition and neurotrophic factors in Parkinson's disease.

20 patients diagnosed with Parkinson's disease will be randomly assigned to either intervention or control group. And 10 healty subjects will be included to study in order to determine the reference values.The intervention group will be recieved cognitive and motor dual task training consisting of balance and walking activities 3 days a week for 8 weeks. Control group will be recieved same balance and walking activities in single task condition 3 days a week for 8 weeks. In order to evaluate the effects of the training, evaluations will be performed before and after the training period.

Inclusion Criteria:

• at least 40 years of age
• neurologist-diagnosed Parkinson's Disease
• Hoehn & Yahr (H&Y) stages 1 to 3
• 24 or more mini mental status examination score.

Exclusion Criteria:

• other neurologic disorder
• cardiovascular, inflammatory,vestibular or musculoskeletal problems that could prevent them to participate in an exercise program
• had deep brain stimulation history
• visual, auditory, orientational problems that could affect study results