Cognitive and balance dual-task training for middle-aged and older individuals with schizophrenia: a three-arm...

Individuals with schizophrenia experience premature aging, leading to balance deficits and higher fall risk. Dual-task training integrating balance and cognitive training has emerged as a novel intervention.

This study examined the effectiveness of CogBals (i.e., Cognitive and Balance training Simultaneously software), a researcher-developed novel software designed for dual-task training, on balance function, walking performance, lower extremities muscle strength and cognitive function in individuals with schizophrenia.

In a single-blind, parallel-group trial, 84 participants (50.18 ± 7.32 years old; 31 females) were recruited from psychiatric rehabilitation centers in Taiwan and randomly assigned (1:1:1) to a COG&BAL group, balance-only (BAL) group, or treatment as usual control group (TAU). Both training groups received the intervention 2x/week, 60 min/session, 12weeks. The primary outcome was balance functions. Data analysis was conducted using Generalized Estimating Equations.

The mini-BESTest showed improvement in both training groups compared to TAU. The COG&BAL group demonstrated superior improvements in Timed Up and Go Test motor dual-task performance (p=.009), walking speed (p=.010) and stride length (p=.014) under fast walking condition compared to the BAL group. Notably, the TAU group showed significantly decline in balance function. No harms events were identified.

The dual-task training with CogBals enhanced balance and walking performance in middle-aged and older adults with schizophrenia. This intervention shows potential as an effective dual-task balance training approach for fall risk reduction. Future research is suggested to investigate its long-term effects and applicability in various populations.