Abstract
BackgroundIt has been suggested that physical inactivity and lack of stimulating cognitive activity are the two most significant modifiable risk factors to impair cognitive function. Although many studies that investigated the cognitive effects of physical exercise and cognitive stimuli in dual-task conditions showed improved cognitive performance, others have not confirmed these findings. The main aim of the present work is to analyze the effects of a dual-task multimodal physical exercise training, at moderate intensity, and cognitive stimulation on cognitive and physical function in healthy older adults.MethodsThis clinical trial was registered on the Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (RBR-9zrx3d). Here we tested the effects of a dual-task multimodal physical exercise training, at moderate intensity, on cognitive and physical function and quality of life in community dwelling older adults. The training protocol included 24 group sessions, 2/week, per 75 min. Cognition was assessed using CANTAB automated neuropsychological tests and Functional Capacity to Exercise tests. Performance was compared from baseline to post intervention and to a non-exercise control group using Mixed Linear Model for repeated measures.ResultsControl (CG) and dual-task (DTEx) groups progressed differentially over time on performance of episodic memory, sustained visual attention, functional mobility, cardiorespiratory fitness, lower limbs strength resistance, agility, quality of life and dual-task performance with significant improved DTEx performance. Control group did not show any significant changes on these tests except for showing a reduction in dual-task performance.ConclusionWe suggest that the dual-task combination of multisensory cognitive stimulation and multimodal moderate physical exercise training, twice a week, may be adopted as an effective program to reduce progression of age-related cognitive decline and improve physical fitness and quality of life on healthy older adults.Clinical Trial RegistrationBrazilian Registry of Clinical Trials: https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-9zrx3d -UTN code: U1111-1233-6349.
Highlights
As we celebrate greater longevity, we are witnessing a change in the nosological profile that includes higher incidence rates of neurodegenerative diseases associated with aging, including cognitive decline and dementia, of which the prevalence doubles every 6 years from the age of 65 (Cheng, 2016)
Main effects of Time were detected [F(1,67) = 5.847, p = 0.018] and a significant Group x Time interaction was detected for PAL Stages completed (PAL SC) [F(1,67) = 4.038, p = 0.049], demonstrating that PAL was differentially affected in the CG and DTEX over time
Main effects of Time were observed for episodic memory assessed by a decrease in Total Trials Adjusted [PAL Total Trials Adjusted (PAL TTA): F(1.67) = 17.079, p < 0.001] and an increase in the number of patterns succeeded [PAL Number of patterns succeeded (PAL NPS): F(1.66) = 6.647, p = 0.012], with significant Dual-Task Exercise (DTEx) improvements for both PAL TTA (p < 0.001) and PAL NPS (p = 0.001) while there were no changes for the CG (PAL TTA: p = 0.150; PAL NPS: p = 0.652) (Table 2)
Summary
As we celebrate greater longevity, we are witnessing a change in the nosological profile that includes higher incidence rates of neurodegenerative diseases associated with aging, including cognitive decline and dementia, of which the prevalence doubles every 6 years from the age of 65 (Cheng, 2016). Dementia implies high costs for health systems and great negative impact on quality of life for patients, as well as family members and caregivers (Prince et al, 2015). Further aggravating this scenario is that during the course of the last few generations there is greater availability of information technologies and mobile telecommunications with less expensive internet access, which has expanded the underlying trend of sedentary behavior (Owen et al, 2020). The main aim of the present work is to analyze the effects of a dual-task multimodal physical exercise training, at moderate intensity, and cognitive stimulation on cognitive and physical function in healthy older adults
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