건강한 성인의 균형 능력에 미치는 인지적 이중과제 훈련의 효과

Effects of Cognitive Dual-Task Training on Balance Ability in Healthy Adults

This study investigated the effects of cognitive dual-task training on balance ability in healthy adults using the Neofect Smart Balance System. Thirty participants were randomly assigned to a cognitive dual-task training group (n=15) or a motor single-task group (n=15). Both groups performed balance tasks involving visual feedback, weight shifting, and goal-directed foot movements on a balance pad. The cognitive dual-task group simultaneously completed cognitive tasks of varying complexity, such as numerical calculations and word recall, during balance training. Group homogeneity was assessed using an independent t-test, and normality was verified with the Shapiro-Wilk test. Within-group differences between pre- and post-training were analyzed using paired t-tests, while between-group differences were analyzed using independent t-tests. The cognitive dual-task group demonstrated significant improvements in eyes-closed static balance, reflected by reductions in center of pressure (COP) path length and surface area (p<.05). However, no significant improvements were observed in dynamic balance or in comparisons between the two groups(p>.05). These findings indicate that cognitive dual-task training selectively enhances static balance performance under visually restricted conditions in healthy adults. Further studies with larger samples, longer intervention periods, and diverse balance assessment measures are needed to clarify the broader effects of cognitive dual-task training.