Objective: The aim of this study was to verify the effect of dual task in a training protocol in the components of physical Functional Performance and mobility of older adults Methods: Thirty older adults (twenty-three female and seven males; 66.48 ±3.85 years) were distributed into three randomized groups: Multi-component physical activity group (MC), Dual Task Group (DT) and Control Group (CG). Participants were assessed before training and after 12 weeks of training with the following tests: Mini Mental State Examination, for evaluation of cognitive functions, AAHPERD test battery - American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, for evaluation of five physical Functional Performance components, Timed Up and Go, for evaluation of functional mobility and The Baecke Questionnaire to assess the level of physical activity. Both MC and DT groups performed the same multi-components training protocol, however DT group performed simultaneously with a second cognitive task. Results: The groups that performed the training protocol improved some aspects of physical Functional Performance and mobility compared to the CG (p < 0.01). No difference was found between the DT and MC groups. Conclusion: Performing two simultaneous tasks in a training protocol does not seem to influence the functional capacity and mobility.Keywords: dual task training, multi-components training, physical functional performance
Exercise: Effects on Physical Functional Performance in Independent Older Adults
