What is one effect of cognitive interference on movement performance?

Cognitive interference can significantly impact movement performance, particularly in situations where a motor task requires attention or cognitive resources. When a person is faced with multiple tasks that demand cognitive effort simultaneously, such as thinking about a complex problem while trying to perform a physical activity, this can lead to a slowdown or hindrance in motor task performance.

The brain has a limited capacity for processing information. When cognitive resources are taxed, as often happens with cognitive interference, the ability to coordinate movement effectively can diminish. This scenario is particularly relevant in rehabilitation contexts, where individuals with conditions such as stroke may struggle with both cognitive and motor impairments, making dual-task situations especially challenging. Thus, cognitive interference not only affects the speed and timing of motor responses but can also impact the overall quality of movement execution during motor tasks, leading to potential errors or decreased efficiency.