Assessing Dual-Task Performance Using a Paper-and-Pencil Test: Normative Data

Abstract

Although several studies have described dual-tasking ability in normal aging, Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer's disease, no normative data for dual-task performance exist. Dual-tasking ability of 436 healthy individuals, aged 16-88 years, was assessed using a new paper-and-pencil dual-task paradigm. In this study, no age effect was detected, providing strong evidence that age does not affect dual-tasking abilities. Psychometric data for this new assessment are presented, which may enable clinicians and researchers to use this paradigm as a means of examining attentional control in dual-tasking.