Abstract
Objective
To analyze the possible differences in the kinematic variables of gait between physically active and physically inactive older people while performing dual-task activities.
Method
Older individuals, aged between 60 and 75 years, participated, divided into two groups: physically inactive (PI) (n=20) and physically active (PA) (n=20). Participants were equally grouped into ten female and male individuals, classified using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Participants initially performed simple tasks (arithmetic, verbal fluency, and gait) and then performed dual task activities, associating gait with the two cognitive activities (arithmetic and verbal fluency). The variables velocity, cadence, stride length, step width, stride time and double support were analyzed. To compare variables according to task and group, the Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) model complemented by the Bonferroni test was used.
Results
In the intragroup analysis both groups showed significant decreases in velocity, cadence, step width, stride time and double support, both in the arithmetic dual task and in the verbal fluency dual task. However, in the comparisons between the groups, there were no statistically significant differences in any kinematic parameter analyzed, both in the single gait analysis and in the dual tasks.
Conclusion
The dual tasks had a negative influence on the kinematic gait parameters in both groups. However, the level of physical activity can not be considered a factor that minimizes the effects of the dual task on gait in the older people.
Keywords
Physical Activity; Aging; Gait; Cognition