OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of integrated and consecutive cognitive dual-task balance training in older adults on balance, fear of falling, and gait performance. METHODS: Fifty-eight subjects (age > 65 years) were randomly assigned to an integrated dual-task training group (IDTT) (n = 29) and consecutive dual-task training group (CDTT) (n = 29). Balance exercises and cognitive tasks were performed simultaneously by the IDTT group and consecutively by the CDTT group for 8 weeks. Balance was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) as a primary outcome measure and the Timed "Up and Go" Test (TUG) (standard-cognitive), fear of falling was assessed using the Tinetti Falls Efficacy Scale (FES), and gait speed was assessed using the 10-Meter Walk Test (10MWT) (under single-task and dual-task conditions). All tests were performed before and after the training. RESULTS: There was no difference in group-time interaction in the BBS, TUG-ST, 10MWT-ST, and 10MWT-DT tests. Group-time interaction was different in the TUG-Cog and FES scores. Also, the effect of time was significantly different in all scales except for the 10MWT-ST in both groups. CONCLUSION: At the end of the 8 week training period, the impact of integrated and consecutive dual-task balance training on balance and gait performance in older adults was not statistically significantly different. This study suggests that consecutive dual-task balance training can be used as an alternative method to increase balance performance and gait speed in older adults who cannot perform integrated dual-task activities.

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