Article

Although functional task-specific training is a viable approach for
upper extremity neurorehabilitation, its appropriateness for older populations is
unclear. If task-specific training is to be prescribed to older adults, it must
be efficacious and feasible, even in patients with cognitive decline due to
advancing age.
This cross-sectional study tested the efficacy and
feasibility of upper extremity task-specific training in older adults, including
those with lower cognitive scores. METHODS: Fifty older adults (age 65-89 years)
without any confounding neuromuscular impairment were randomly assigned to a
training group or no-training group. The training group completed 3 days (dosage
= 2250 repetitions) of a functional upper extremity motor task (simulated
feeding) with their nondominant hand; the no-training group completed no form of
training at all. Both groups' task performance (measured as trial time) was
tested at pre- and posttest, and the training group was retested
1 month later.
Efficacy was determined by rate, amount, and retention of training-related
improvement, and compared across levels of cognitive status. Feasibility was
determined by participants' tolerance of the prescribed training dose. RESULTS:
The training group was able to complete the training dose without adverse
responses and showed a significant rate, amount, and retention of improvement
compared with the no-training group. Cognitive status did not alter results,
although participants with lower scores on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment were
slower overall. CONCLUSIONS: Task-specific training may be appropriate for
improving upper extremity function in older adults, yet future work in older patients with specific neurological conditions is needed.
CI - (c) The Author(s) 2014.

Langue : ANGLAIS