Dual-tasking in older women: physical activity or else?

ABSTRACT

The interplay between gender, Physical Activity (PA), and Dual Tasking (DT) in older adults is unclear. This study aimed to address DT based on gender and PA level. One-hundred and twenty older adults (81 women and 39 men) participated. Timed up and go test and spatiotemporal gait measures were collected in single and DT conditions. Participants were grouped according to gender and PA level. Physical activity did not explain gender differences, women were slower and had shorter stride lengths when DT regardless of PA level. Findings indicate the necessity for tailored PA and functional interventions to improve women’s performance.

KEYWORDS:

• Gender
• dual task
• physical activity

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to acknowledge the role of Ms Yasmin Abu Hanood, who was the research assistant involved in data collection.

Disclosure statement

No competing financial interests exist.

Additional information

Funding

The study was funded by the Deanship of Academic Research, University of Jordan [1517].