Cognitive parameters can predict change of walking performance in advanced Parkinson's disease - Chances and limits of early rehabilitation

Introduction

Links between cognition and walking performance in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), which both decline with disease progression, are well known. There is lack of knowledge regarding the predictive value of cognition for changes in walking performance after individualized therapy. The aim of this study is to identify relevant predictive cognitive and affective parameters, measurable in daily clinical routines, for change in quantitative walking performance after early geriatric rehabilitation.  Under ST, there was moderate evidence (BF10 = 7.8, respectively, BF10 = 4.4) that lower performance in the ∆TMT at baseline is associated with lower reduction of step time asymmetry after treatment (R2adj = 0.26, p ≤ 0.008, respectively, R2adj = 0.18, p ≤ 0.009). Under DT walking-cognitive, there was strong evidence (BF10 = 29.9, respectively, BF10 = 27.9) that lower performance in the ∆TMT is associated with more reduced stride time and double limb support (R2adj = 0.62, p ≤ 0.002, respectively, R2adj = 0.51, p ≤ 0.009). [...] Our results indicate that the effect of ERGT on change in walking performance is limited for patients with deficits in EF and divided attention. However, these patients also seem to walk more cautiously after treatment in walking situations with additional cognitive demand. Therefore, future development of individualized treatment algorithms is required, which address individual needs of these vulnerable patients.

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