INFLUÊNCIA DO USO DE SMARTPHONE SOBRE O EQUILÍBRIO ESTÁTICO E DINÂMICO DE ADULTOS JOVENS E IDOSOS DURANTE A REALIZAÇÃO DE DUPLA-TAREFA

Abstract

Previous studies have shown the dual-task cost of using smartphones while performing functional activities. However, less is known about the role of cognition and aging in this process. Seeking to answer this question, one hundred and one participants, divided between older and younger adults, were included in this study. The dual-task cost of using smartphone was assessed in walking and standing activities while participants were texting messages and talking on the phone. Data analysis involved multi- and univariate comparisons between groups and tasks. Cognitive tests were included as covariant on the statistical models. The results showed that the dual-task cost of using smartphone while walking or standing is higher in older adults compared to younger adults (group effect of 0.314). Dual tasking with smartphone increases mobility (effect size of 0.731) and balance (effect size of 0.640) risks in both groups. Univariate analyzes indicate that texting messages affect more subjects’ mobility and talking on the phone impact more balance. Cognitive functions plays an important role on mobility (effect size of 0.161) and balance (effect size 0.233) during dual tasks with smartphone. In conclusion, the dual-task cost of using smartphone while performing functional activities is higher in older compared to younger adults. Texting messages during walking affect mobility on a bigger way than talking on the phone. Talking on the phone, differently, impact more subjects’ balance. Cognitive functions explains a part of mobility and balance challenges during dual tasks with smartphone.