Examining the Effects of Dual and Single Task Exercises in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Complications developing in individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) lead to functional impairments and losses in postural balance; however, changes in cognitive functions are also observed and are often overlooked. Dual-task exercises allow simultaneous engagement of balance and cognitive functions. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of dual-task exercise training on cognitive functions, balance, and functional status in individuals with T2DM. Methods: In this study, 40 individuals diagnosed with T2DM were randomly assigned to three groups: the dual-task exercise group (DTEG, n = 13), the single-task exercise group (STEG, n = 13), and the control group (CG, n = 14). Over eight weeks, balance exercises were administered to the STEG, while simultaneous balance and cognitive exercises were applied to the DTEG, twice weekly under the supervision of a physiotherapist. Participants in the control group received no intervention. Dual-task performance, cognitive functions, balance, and functional status were assessed at baseline and at the end of eight weeks. Dual-task performance was defined as the primary outcome. Results: After the intervention, for the primary outcome, dual-task performance (TUG single-task condition and TUG dual-task condition), both exercise groups showed greater improvements than controls. Both exercise groups also demonstrated significant improvements in balance, functional status, and cognitive outcomes compared to the control group. In the between-group comparisons, both exercise groups showed significant improvements in several cognitive functions compared with the control group (p < 0.05). In addition, the MoCA total score was significantly higher in the DTEG compared with the other groups. Conclusions: Both dual-task and single-task exercises improve cognitive function, balance, and functional status in individuals with T2DM.