Effect of Dual-Task Training on Cognitive Function and Physical Condition in Adults with Intellectual Disabilities

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Effect of Dual-Task Training on Cognitive Function and Physical Condition in Adults with Intellectual Disabilities
Language: English
Authors: Carmen Gutiérrez-Cruz (ORCID 0000-0001-9691-3418), Francisco J. Ruiz-Perálvarez, Indya del-Cuerpo (ORCID 0000-0002-2949-7896), Luis Javier Chirosa-Ríos, Danica Janicijevic
Source: Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities. 2026 39(2).
Availability: Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://www.wiley.com/en-us
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 12
Publication Date: 2026
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Descriptors: Intellectual Disability, Training Methods, Transfer of Training, Cognitive Processes, Physical Health, Adults, Reaction Time, Human Posture, Muscular Strength, Body Composition, Exercise, Physical Mobility, Daily Living Skills, Employment Potential, Outcomes of Treatment
DOI: 10.1111/jar.70227
ISSN: 1360-2322
1468-3148
Abstract: Background: This randomized controlled trial with repeated measures examined the effects of a 21-week dual-task training (DTT) program on choice reaction time (CRT), postural control, strength and body composition in individuals with intellectual disabilities. Method: Fifty-seven participants with mild to moderate intellectual disability were assigned to an experimental or control group. The experimental group completed 63 training sessions, with evaluations at 12 and 21 weeks, while the control group carried out their regular activities. Results: A significant reduction in CRT (p < 0.005) and improvements in postural control under dual-task (DT) conditions (p ≤ 0.041) were observed with no benefits for DT cost. Mean and maximum strength increased after 12 and 21 weeks (p ≤ 0.001). Changes in body composition were characterized by an increase in the percentage of muscle mass (p ≤ 0.001) and a reduction in fat mass (p = 0.010). Conclusions: These findings support the effectiveness of DTT for improving CRT and strength in individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: EJ1503991
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:Background: This randomized controlled trial with repeated measures examined the effects of a 21-week dual-task training (DTT) program on choice reaction time (CRT), postural control, strength and body composition in individuals with intellectual disabilities. Method: Fifty-seven participants with mild to moderate intellectual disability were assigned to an experimental or control group. The experimental group completed 63 training sessions, with evaluations at 12 and 21 weeks, while the control group carried out their regular activities. Results: A significant reduction in CRT (p < 0.005) and improvements in postural control under dual-task (DT) conditions (p ≤ 0.041) were observed with no benefits for DT cost. Mean and maximum strength increased after 12 and 21 weeks (p ≤ 0.001). Changes in body composition were characterized by an increase in the percentage of muscle mass (p ≤ 0.001) and a reduction in fat mass (p = 0.010). Conclusions: These findings support the effectiveness of DTT for improving CRT and strength in individuals with intellectual disabilities.
ISSN:1360-2322
1468-3148
DOI:10.1111/jar.70227