[Effects on cognitive processes of dual-task training in people with Parkinson's disease: a systematic review]

Dual-tasking is a non-pharmacological intervention in people with neurodegenerative conditions, and is used in Parkinson's disease (PD), primarily to enhance motor performance. The aim of this review is to compile the current evidence on how dual-task training affects cognitive processes in people with PD.

A systematic review was undertaken, applying PRISMA guidelines, which included articles obtained from the PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct and Springer Link databases. Methodological quality was assessed using PEDro and ROBINS-I.

Twelve articles met the inclusion and exclusion criteria: nine of them were randomized controlled trials, and the remaining three were non-randomized studies. Improvements in attention and executive functions were identified, although the diversity of approaches and duration means that reaching definitive conclusions is difficult.

Increased research and standardized intervention programmes are essential. Longitudinal and randomized controlled studies in representative samples which provide conclusions that are applicable to other contexts are also important.