Comparison of the Effects of Telerehabilitation-Based Motor and Cognitive Dual-Task Exercises in Patients With Parkinson's Disease-A Randomized Controlled Study.

BACKGROUND/

OBJECTIVES

The co-occurrence of motor and cognitive impairments in Parkinson's disease underscores the importance of dual-task training, particularly when delivered via telerehabilitation. This study aimed to compare the effects of telerehabilitation-based motor-motor and cognitive-motor dual-task training on gait speed, functional mobility, balance, strength, cognition, quality of life, and fear of falling in patients with Parkinson's disease.

METHODS

Thirty individuals diagnosed with idiopathic Parkinson's disease completed this randomized controlled study: Motor-Motor Dual-Task Training Group, n = 10; the Cognitive-Motor Dual-Task Training Group, n = 10; and the control group: n = 10. Throughout the 8-week intervention period, all exercise sessions were conducted via telerehabilitation. While the Motor-Motor Dual-Task Training Group completed additional motor tasks alongside the structured exercise program, the Cognitive-Motor Dual-Task Training Group performed additional cognitive tasks with the structured exercise program, and the control group participated only in the structured exercise program. The 10-m Walk Test, Timed Up and Go test, Berg Balance Scale, five Times Sit to Stand Test, Montreal Cognitive Assessment scale, Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire scale, and Falls Efficacy Scale-International were assessed at baseline and postintervention.

RESULTS

Over 8 weeks, both Cognitive-Motor Dual-Task Training Group and Motor-Motor Dual-Task Training Group demonstrated significant within-group improvements (all, p ≤ .05), whereas the control group showed no improvement (all p > .05). Significant differences were observed between groups for all parameters (all p ≤ .05), except quality of life (p > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Telerehabilitation-based dual-task training interventions may improve gait speed, functional mobility, balance, lower extremity strength, and cognition and reduce fear of falling in patients with Parkinson's disease. Significance/Implications: Telerehabilitation-based dual-task training may serve as an accessible rehabilitation approach that supports functional mobility, cognitive performance, and fall prevention in patients with Parkinson's disease.