Dual-task activity and cognitive performance in older adults: a systematic review

BACKGROUND: Aging leads to changes in physical, organic, and mental functions, interfering with an individual's autonomy and quality of life. Studies have demonstrated the promising role of dual-task activities in several motor aspects, such as maintaining balance, improving gait quality and speed, and increasing strength and agility. However, studies addressing the impact of dual-task activities on cognitive functions in older adults are still scarce. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the results of studies regarding the effectiveness of dual-task training on performance in cognitive tests among older adults. METHODOLOGY: This is a systematic review conducted in May 2021 using the databases PubMed, LILACS, and SciELO. All included studies evaluated the effect of a dual-task activity program on cognitive capacity. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences (p<0.05) were observed in the cognitive functions assessed after the intervention. CONCLUSION: The studies included in this review generally indicate favorable effects of dual-task activities on different components of cognitive function in older adults. Benefits were observed in global cognition, executive functions, attention, and working memory.