Effect of a dual-task program with different cognitive tasks applied to stroke patients: A pilot randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background: Dual-task training using one walking and one cognitive task is effective in improving post-stroke motor functions.

Objective: We aimed to investigate the effectiveness of dual-task training using various cognitive tasks for the assessment of attention, executive function, and motor function in stroke patients.

Methods: This was a single-center, randomized trial involving 30 stroke patients who were divided into a dual-task (test) group (n = 15) using different cognitive tests, and a conventional occupational therapy (control) group (n = 15). In both groups, interventions were conducted 18 times, at 30 minutes per session, 3 sessions per week, for 6 weeks. Primary outcome measures were the Trail Making Test A&B, the Digit Span Test (DST) Forward and Backward, and the Stroop (ST) Color and Word test. Secondary outcome measures were the Fugl-Meyer Assessment, the Modified Functional Reach Test, and the Berg Balance Scale. Each test was applied pre-and post- intervention.

Results: Post-intervention, the dual-task group showed a significantly stronger effect than the occupational therapy group in the DST-Forward (p = 0.04), DST-Backward (p = 0.001), ST-Color (p = 0.023), and Berg Balance Scale (p = 0.009) assessments.

Conclusions: Dual-task training using various cognitive tasks had a greater positive effect than conventional occupational therapy on auditory attention, memory span, executive function, and balance.

Keywords: Dual-task; attention; cognition; executive function; motor.