Spoken Language Dual-Task Effects in Typical Aging: A Systematic Review

Many studies have shown that several spoken language production skills are negatively affected by the typical aging process. In contrast, how language is affected when older adults are asked to speak under conditions of distraction using dual- or multitask paradigms has received less empirical attention, even though such conditions align with the demands of everyday communication contexts. Accordingly, the objectives in this original systematic review were to synthesize and appraise literature on spoken language production in neurotypical older adults when they talk under conditions of distraction. To our knowledge, this is the first systematic review that focuses on this topic.

Five databases (EMBASE, LLBA, Medline, PsycINFO, Web of Science Core Collection) were searched (from databases' inception to January 2024) for eligible studies using comprehensive search terms. All steps from screening of records, selection of studies, data extraction, and critical appraisal were carried out by two reviewers who worked independently.

Thirteen studies culminated in the qualitative evidence synthesis. Critical appraisal was carried out and showed that the current evidence base is overall weak.

The findings were mixed as to whether dual-task costs (i.e., worse performance in single-task, talking only) are evident in aging. However, speech fluency in discourse appears to be more vulnerable under conditions of distraction in older than younger adults. Across all included studies, significant methodological shortcomings were present. Whereas this literature points to some age-related changes when speaking in more challenging, dual-task contexts, further research is clearly needed on topics such as the types of dual-task contexts that reveal age-related language changes, the role of instructions on task prioritization, and the role of influential participant variables (e.g., cardiovascular risk factors) on dual-task language performance in older adults.

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.29525795.