Quantifying effects of dual task performance and cognition on gait coordination in elderly geriatric patients

The effects of a cognitive dual task on gait coordination in 24 older geriatric day clinic patients while walking at self-selected speed was studied and related to cognitive function. Trunk accelerations were registered (DynaPort ®; McRoberts) and used to calculate gait and trunk parameters. The Mini Mental State Examination and the Seven Minute Screen were administered. With dual task, walking speed was significantly lower, while variability of stride time increased and stability and regularity of lateral trunk accelerations decreased. These results provide support that changes in cognitive functions are likely to contribute to an increased fall risk