Examining the Effects of Dual and Single Task Exercises in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Controlled...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Gerontology
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) complications include functional impairments and postural balance loss.
• Cognitive function changes in T2DM are often overlooked but can be addressed by dual-task exercises.
• Dual-task exercises engage both balance and cognitive functions simultaneously.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of dual-task exercise training on cognitive functions, balance, and functional status in individuals with T2DM.
• To compare dual-task exercise with single-task exercise and a control group.

Main Methods:

• 40 individuals with T2DM were randomized into dual-task exercise (DTEG), single-task exercise (STEG), or control (CG) groups.
• Intervention lasted eight weeks, with DTEG and STEG performing exercises twice weekly.
• Assessments included dual-task performance, cognitive functions, balance, and functional status at baseline and post-intervention.

Main Results:

• Both DTEG and STEG showed greater improvements in dual-task performance than CG.
• Significant improvements in balance, functional status, and cognitive outcomes were observed in both exercise groups compared to CG.
• The DTEG demonstrated significantly higher MoCA scores compared to both STEG and CG.

Conclusions:

• Both dual-task and single-task exercises are effective in improving cognitive function, balance, and functional status in individuals with T2DM.
• Dual-task exercise may offer additional benefits for cognitive function, as indicated by MoCA scores.