Combining Cognitive and Treadmill Training on Cognition and Walking Performance in Stroke With Cognitive Impairment

Effects of Combining Cognitive and Treadmill Training on Cognitive Function and Walking Performance-Exploration in Chronic Stroke Patient With Cognitive Impairment

Post-stroke cognitive impairment is common in stroke survivors. Cognitive function is related to walking ability. The dual task walking is required for daily activities, however, such ability is even more challenging than single walking for people with stroke. The purpose of present study is to investigate the effects of combining cognitive and treadmill training on cognitive function and dual task walking performance in chronic stroke patients with cognitive impairment.

This is a single-blinded, randomized controlled trial with pre- and post-measurements. 24 subjects will be recruited, and randomly assigned to one of two groups: cognitive training during treadmill training group (experimental group) and treadmill training group (control group). The intervention for both group will be 30 minutes per session, 3 sessions per week for a total of 4 weeks. Statistical data analysis will use the SPSS 25.0. Baseline characteristics will be analyzed using independent t-test or Chi-square test. Repeated measures two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Tukey's post-hoc analysis will be used to compare between time and groups. The significant level is set at 0.05.

Inclusion Criteria:

• age over 50 years old
• chronic stroke (onset >6 months)
• with mini-mental state examination (MMSE) score≧24
• Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) score<26 (impaired cognition)
• ability to walk independently for at least 10 meters without assistive devices or support
• ability to read and write cognitive tests

Exclusion Criteria:

• diagnosis of dementia
• unstable physical condition
• any neurological, psychiatric disorder, or diagnosed with learning disability which may affect participation in this study
• visual or auditory disturbances