Abstract
Working memory (WM) training (WMT), aerobic exercise training (AET), and dual-task training improve cognitive functions and alter neural systems in older adults. In particular, the effects have been investigated of dual-task training that combines a walking or standing activity (balance exercise) simultaneously performed with cognitive training (which is ecologically difficult for the elderly). In this study, we investigated the effects of simultaneously performed dual-task training incorporating both AET and WMT (SDAEWMT), using a recumbent ergocycle bicycle and a WMT program that provided a portable console and made the training ecologically easy for the elderly. Older adults (65.9±13.7 years old) participated in 3 months of SDAEWMT, WMT, or AET after random allocation, and the effects of SDAEWMT were compared with those of WMT and AET. Prior to and after training, all the subjects underwent cognitive testing, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) involving diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and functional MRI during performance of an N-back WM task. SDAEWMT improved executive function (performance of a frontal assessment battery); however, there was no evidence of broader transfer effects or enhanced learning with WMT. SDAEWMT resulted in mean diffusivity changes in brain areas involving the dopaminergic system, suggesting that neural tissue changes occurred in these areas. SDAEWMT also resulted in an increase in brain activity during the 2-back working memory task in brain areas involved in attentional reorientation. These results suggest that SDAEWMT is effective for improving cognitive functions and inducing beneficial neural changes in older adults.
Highlights
The proportion of older individuals is increasing worldwide in parallel with improvements in the average life expectancy [1]
We developed and successfully implemented an ecologically applicable SDAEWMT method and examined its effects on cognitive function, brain structure, and brain activity patterns in comparison with those of WM training (WMT) and Aerobic exercise training (AET) methods
We showed that (a) SDAEWMT significantly improved the performance of the frontal assessment battery (FAB), but there were no significant results in other broader transfer measures
Summary
The proportion of older individuals is increasing worldwide in parallel with improvements in the average life expectancy [1]. Despite an increase in life expectancy, various studies have highlighted that aging is associated with deterioration in both physical and cognitive functions [2]. It is important to identify and implement effective strategies and activities that can maintain and even improve the cognitive abilities of older adults. Cognitive training and physical training have been primarily investigated for this purpose. The combination of these approaches is the topic of the present study
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