Investigation of the Effects of Dual-Task Balance and Gait Training Combined With Cognitive Training in Parkinson's Patients
Investigation of the Effects of Dual-Task Balance and Gait Training Combined With Cognitive Training in Parkinson's Patients
The aim of the study is to examine the effects of a structured, cognitive dimension-specific cognitive training combined with dual-task balance and gait training on balance, gait, and cognition in individuals with Parkinson's disease.
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the most common movement disorder and the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer's disease. In addition to cardinal motor symptoms such as bradykinesia, rigidity, and resting tremor, PD is associated with a wide spectrum of non-motor symptoms that substantially increase overall disease burden. Among these, cognitive impairment is particularly significant, occurring up to six times more frequently in individuals with PD compared to the healthy population.
Although research on cognition in PD has increased over the past two decades, knowledge and treatment strategies for cognitive deficits remain limited compared to those addressing motor symptoms. Since no effective treatment currently exists to prevent or delay cognitive decline in PD, investigations into cognitive interventions are gaining increasing importance for understanding and managing this disabling aspect of the disease, which may emerge at all stages.
One promising intervention is RehaCom, a computer-based program that provides personalized cognitive training modules tailored to individual needs. Previous studies have demonstrated that RehaCom improves cognitive performance, enhances quality of life, and optimizes function in impaired domains. By prioritizing learning principles and offering individualized training for specific cognitive dimensions, RehaCom has also been shown to promote neural plasticity in patients with PD.
Motor learning literature emphasizes that not only training intensity but also conditions resembling real-life scenarios are critical for effective rehabilitation. Daily activities often require walking and maintaining balance while simultaneously performing additional tasks, such as speaking (cognitive dual-task) or carrying an object (motor dual-task). Dual-task training, which integrates motor training with either a cognitive or an additional motor task, is a comprehensive approach supported by strong evidence. Compared to single-task practice, dual-task training enhances motor learning, yields greater functional gains, and facilitates transfer of these improvements to activities of daily living.
Considering the deficiencies in cognition as a reason for the progressive and irreversible nature of the pathogenesis of PD, the present study hypothesizes that providing structured cognitive skills training will be more effective in improving both motor and cognitive functions. However, a review of the literature indicates that studies in this area remain limited. Therefore, the present study aims to implement and evaluate a rehabilitation program combining cognitive training with dual-task-focused balance and gait exercises in individuals with PD.
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