Comparison of Dual Task Performance, Cadence, and Walking Speed in Healthy Geriatric Individuals with Alzheimer's Dementia

Year 2026, Volume: 9 Issue: 1, 34 - 45, 25.01.2026

Senanur Ak , Meral Sertel

https://doi.org/10.33438/ijdshs.1816297

https://izlik.org/JA23XD84XY

Abstract

Purpose: Alzheimer’s Dementia (AD) affects both cognitive and motor functions, often reducing gait speed, altering cadence, and impairing dual-task performance compared to healthy aging. This study aimed to compare dual-task performance, cadence, and gait speed between individuals with AD and healthy older adults. Method: Fifty participants aged 65 and older were recruited from private care centers in Ankara. The AD group included 25 individuals with a clinical diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Dementia who could walk independently. The control group included 25 healthy older adults with independent ambulation. Dual-task performance was assessed using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test with cognitive and motor tasks. Gait speed was measured via the 2-Minute Walk Test (2MWT), and cadence was evaluated using the Footprint Method. Cognitive status was determined using the Standardized Mini-Mental Test (SMMT). Findings: The mean age of the AD group was 76.44±8.70 years, and the control group was 70.92±5.93 years. Individuals with AD showed significantly lower dual-task performance (p=0.000), slower gait speed (p=0.000), and reduced cadence (p=0.049) compared to healthy older adults. Step length and double step length were also notably shorter in the AD group. Conclusion: Older adults with Alzheimer’s Dementia exhibit marked impairments in motor and dual-task functions compared to their healthy peers. Rehabilitation programs should incorporate motor-cognitive strategies to improve dual-task performance and gait parameters. Individualized, environment-focused interventions are crucial for promoting autonomy and reducing functional decline in AD. In healthy aging, early assessment and preventive strategies are essential for maintaining mobility and independence.

Keywords

Alzheimer’s Dementia , Dual Task , Cadence , Gait Speed

Ethical Statement

The study was reviewed by the Non-Interventional Ethics Committee of Kırıkkale University on January 11, 2023, and approved with decision number 2023.01.12.

Supporting Institution

Non.

Thanks

Non.

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