%0 Journal Article
%T Reciprocal influence of concurrent walking and cognitive testing on performance in older adults
%J Gait and posture
%D 2006
%A Faulkner, Kimberly A.
%A Redfern, Mark S.
%A Rosano, Caterina
%A Landsittel, Douglas P.
%A Studenski, Stephanie A.
%A Cauley, Jane A.
%A Zmuda, Joseph M.
%A Simonsick, Eleanor M.
%A Kritchevsky, Stephen B.
%A Newman, Anne B.
%V 24
%N 2
%P 182-189
%X This study investigated how cognitive and walking performance are influenced when performed concurrently in older adults and what factors are associated with poorer dual-task responses. Using a dual-task study design, 217 subjects aged 74-85 years completed three information processing test conditions--(1) no test; (2) push-button simple reaction-time; and (3) visual-spatial decision reaction-time; and three walking test conditions--(1) seated; (2) walking over a 20m straight course; and (3) walking over 20m with a turn. Push-button and visual-spatial reaction-times increased approximately 21% and 6%, respectively, while walking compared to sitting (p<0.008). Reaction-time tests had a relatively weak impact on walking-time. Poorer dual-task walking-time responses correlated with slower walking velocity and weaker muscle strength (p< or =.062). Findings suggest that walking requires significant cognitive resources among older adults and slower-walking adults and weaker adults may require higher cognitive loading while walking.<p />
%G 
%I Elsevier Publishing
%@ 0966-6362
%U http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.gaitpost.2005.08.004