Skills In Older Adults Research Articles

The language network ages well: Preserved selectivity, lateralization, and within-network functional synchronization in older brains.

All organs, including brains, change as we age. However, the brain is not a uniform structure: it comprises multiple distinct networks, each supporting a different aspect of perception, motor control, and cognition. We examine two cognitive brain networks using fMRI and-across two independent cohorts-find a clear dissociation: the so-called Multiple Demand network, which supports executive functions (e.g., working memory), shows clear age-related decline; however, the language-selective network, which supports comprehension and production, remains young-like on all measures of network function and connectivity, in line with the preservation of linguistic skills in older adults. These findings challenge the notion of generalized brain aging and highlight the importance of dissociable components in the brain and mind.

The Immediate Effects of a Single 20-Minute Session of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) on Muscle Strength in Older Adults

The older population often experiences a gradual age-related decline in the primary motor cortex, leading to muscle weakness that can harm their physical performances. Exercise could improve physical performance and prevent falling in older adults. However, the decrease in motor function and motor skills in older adults reduces the efficiency of fall prevention. Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive intervention aimed at improving muscle strength in various conditions by utilizing transcranial direct current stimulation applied to the primary motor cortex (M1). Pre- and post-studies were conducted to demonstrate the effects of a single 20-minute session of tDCS alone, as well as to assess any potential side effects. Sixteen older individuals, both male and female, aged 65 years or older, with or without underlying diseases, were assessed for leg and hand grip strength, followed by physical performance tests. Subsequently, they underwent stimulation of the primary motor cortex through the placement of anodal tDCS (a-tDCS) over the left M1 for 20 min. Immediate effects were evaluated within 24 h, and side effects were recorded for up to 2 weeks after the stimulation. The results demonstrated that a single session of tDCS led to a significant increase in leg strength by 13 kg (5.9 to 20.1 kg, p < 0.01). There was also a significant correlation observed with hand grip strength (r = 0.68, p < 0.01). All physical performance tests, except the fastest speed in the 10-meter walk test, showed statistically significant improvements (p < 0.01). Participants reported no serious side effects, and the intervention will now be incorporated into prospective clinical studies involving older populations to compare its effectiveness with other treatments. HIGHLIGHTS A single session of tDCS led to a significant increase in leg strength. A single session of tDCS, with a significant correlation observed with hand grip strength. Physical performance tests showed statistically significant improvements after a single session of tDCS. Participants reported no serious side effects. This intervention will now be incorporated into prospective clinical studies involving older populations to compare its effectiveness with other treatments. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Literature review on ageing, motor skills and physical-recreational activities in older adults in the Sofia Ratino nursing home

The study responds to a result of the research project: “Strategy of physical-recreational activities for the comprehensive development of motor skills in older adults” carried out by students and teachers of the Sports Training career. Its main objective was to identify and analyze existing studies to design a strategy of physical-recreational activities that favors the comprehensive development of motor skills in older adults at the Sofía Ratino nursing home, providing a solid theoretical basis for future interventions. A qualitative systemic investigation was carried out using a bibliographic review and data collection sheets, taking a series of scientific documents as a sample. The results indicate that an effective strategy must be multifaceted, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of residents. The conclusions highlight the importance of having well-defined stages in physical activity sessions, including warm-up, technique practice and improvisation, to maximize the

Association of Racial Status and Training Language with Baseline Performance and Training Gains During Computerized Training of Technology-related Everyday Functional Skills In Older Adults

ObjectivesResearch consistently finds that lower baseline performance predicts greater gains with computerized training. Lower baseline performance can originate from many factors, including educational and environmental disadvantages, leading to reduced exposure to functional tasks. Across six computerized technology-related functional skills, baseline performance and training gains were compared across race and training language. DesignRandomized clinical trial. SettingAbout 14 community centers in New York City and Miami. ParticipantsParticipants aged 60–90 with diverse ethnic (52% Latinx) and racial (27% Black) status, trained in in English (60%) or Spanish (40%). InterventionRemotely delivered computerized cognitive and skills training (FUNSATTM) for an hour twice a week for up to 12 weeks. MeasurementsCompletion time across all 6 tests pre and post training. ResultsThe total sample included 42 Black English Speakers, 52 White English speakers, and 61 Spanish speakers. Spanish speakers had the poorest baseline performance on all tasks, underperforming English-speaking Latinx participants. However, Spanish speaking participants had the largest training gains. Lower MOCA scores predicted lower baseline performance and greater training gains across samples. Educational attainment predicted training gains only in the Spanish speakers. Despite education effects in this group, all improvements were statistically significant with large effect sizes. ImplicationsLower baseline performance of functional skills was a positive predictor of training gains and was efficiently reversed through training. Even participants who initially appeared more impaired achieved substantial gains, congruent with the results reported in psychiatric populations. Critically, low baseline competence should not be interpreted as reflecting negatively on potential training gains.

Physical exercise and cognition in older adults, a scientific approach scanty reported in Latin America and Caribbean populations.

The advancement of public services, including the increased accessibility of health services, has led to a rise in life expectancy globally. As a result, aging populations are becoming more prevalent, raising concerns about cognitive decline. Fortunately, non-pharmacological methods, such as physical exercise, have been shown to mitigate the effects of aging on the brain. In this perspective article, we examined meta-analyses on the impact of physical exercise on cognition in older adults. The results indicate that combined exercise (i.e., aerobic plus strength training), has a significant positive effect on overall cognition and executive function. However, we found a lack of scientific studies on this topic in Latin American and Caribbean countries. Therefore, there is a pressing need for research to identify the feasibility of physical exercise interventions to improve cognitive skills in older adults from these regions.

Study protocol of the OrkA project: orofacial and communicative activation in old age– a cluster randomized prevention study in long-term care facilities in Lower Saxony, Germany

BackgroundThe process of aging involves numerous changes in the body, influencing physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Age-related changes and degradation can impact various functions of the swallowing process and lead to delayed word retrieval. Individuals with limited linguistic stimulation may experience a more rapid decline in cognitive performance. Thus, this project explores a preventive training program targeting swallowing and linguistic-communicative skills, aimed at preserving the social participation of older individuals residing in nursing homes.MethodsA preventive intervention program, combining orofaciopharyngeal and linguistic-communicative components, will be offered twice weekly over 12 weeks in long-term care facilities in the greater Hanover area. The program will aim at: (a) activating sensitive and motor skills in the orofaciopharyngeal area to counter age-related swallowing disorders, and (b) enhancing communicative abilities through semantic-lexical activation. A cluster randomized controlled trial will be conducted to investigate whether the intervention program improves swallowing skills in older adults. Additionally, a secondary analysis will explore the impact on language skills and social participation, as well as program acceptance.DiscussionThe results will provide valuable insight into the effectiveness of preventive measures addressing swallowing and speech issues in older individuals.Trial registrationThe trial was registered with DRKS (German register for clinical trials) in June 2023 (study ID: DRKS00031594) and the WHO International Clinical Trail Registry Platform (secondary register).

Working memory program for improving language skills in older adults with mild neurocognitive disorders: A pilot study

Background: Older adults with mild neurocognitive disorders (mild NCD) have a higher risk of major NCD. Cognitive deterioration can cause a deficit in working memory and language. Recent studies have shown some involvement overlapping the brain structure of working memory and language skills. Therefore, working memory intervention effectively enhances language skills in mild NCD. However, more research on this topic in Thailand is required. Objectives: This study aimed to develop and implement a pilot study on a working memory program for improving language skills in older adults with mild NCD. Materials and methods: This study was a developmental research design with two phases. Phase one involved the development and examination of the content validity of the working memory program for improving language skills by five experts. Phase two involved piloting the program with three older adults with mild NCD. The participants were asked to provide suggestions about the clarity of content and images, language usage, font size, the comprehensibility of instructions in each activity, and the quality of audio files used to complement the program activities through semi-structured interviews. Descriptive statistics were employed to analyze the collected data. Results: The program comprised nine activities associated with the phonological loop, visual-spatial sketchpad, episodic buffer, and central executive tasks. The program’s content validity was evaluated by five experts, resulting in a content validity index of 0.94, meeting the established criteria. Among the pilot users, three participants meeting the specified criteria indicated their ability to use and practice the program at home effectively. While most participants agreed that the images were clear and the font size was appropriate, there were concerns regarding the clarity of the training process steps and instructions. Additionally, some participants encountered challenges in accessing audio files through quick response (QR) codes. Conclusion: In summary, the pilot study of the working memory program for improving language skills in older adults with mild NCD passed the content validity test and underwent revisions based on suggestions from the pilot users. Consequently, the program could enhance the language abilities of older adults with mild NCD. The next phase will investigate its effectiveness in improving language skills in older adults with mild NCD.

Educational Concepts of Digital Competence Development for Older Adults-A Scoping Review.

The digital transformation of healthcare and nursing is becoming increasingly important due to demographic change and the growing shortage of skilled workers. In order to ensure the participation of senior citizens in digital assistive technologies, educational concepts and support services are needed to promote digital skills in older adults. Therefore, the specific needs and prerequisites of this target group have to be taken into consideration. This paper asks how educational programs for the support of digital competences of older adults are designed and implemented. A scoping review was conducted to systematically extract existing findings from the literature. Four databases (Cinahl, PubMed, Web of Science Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), ERIC) were searched using an exploratory strategy to identify studies that address educational concepts promoting digital competences for older adults. A total of 47 publications were included in the qualitative analysis and show a variety of strategies to deal with the promotion of digital competences for elderly people. In conclusion, programs dealing with the promotion of digital competences for elderly people should be flexibly adapted to the target group with its specific needs and challenges such as fears, lack of previous experience, or physical limitations. For successful implementation, social support is of outstanding importance.

Computerized music-based intervention module for auditory processing and working memory in older adults

IntroductionThe contribution of technology to the field of health is vast, both in diagnosis and management. More so, the use of computer-based intervention has become increasingly widespread over the past decade. Human beings experience a decline in auditory processing and cognitive skills as they age, consistent with deterioration of other bodily functions. In addition, speech perception abilities in both quiet and in the presence of noise are impacted by auditory processing abilities and cognitive skills such as working memory. This pilot study explored the use of music as an intervention for improving these skills and employed a computerized delivery of the intervention module.MethodA battery of tests was carried out to assess the baseline auditory processing and working memory skills in eight older adults between the ages of 56 and 79 years, all of whom had normal hearing. Following the assessment, a short-term computerized music-based intervention was administered. The style of music chosen was Carnatic classical music, a genre widely practiced in Southern India. The intervention module involved note and tempo discrimination and was carried out for a maximum of 10 half-hour sessions. The multi-level intervention module was constructed and administered using Apex software. Following the intervention, the auditory processing and cognitive skills of the participants were reassessed to study any changes in their auditory processing and working memory skills.Results and discussionThere were positive changes observed in all the auditory processing and some of the working memory abilities. This paper discusses in detail the systematic structuring of the computerized music-based intervention module and its effects on the auditory processing and cognitive skills in older adults.

Exploring additional strategy to improving cognitive skills in older adults.

Exploring additional strategy to improving cognitive skills in older adults.

The relationship of tremor severity with proximal and distal muscle strength and upper extremity functional skills in older adults with essential tremor

Although it is known that muscle strength training is effective in Essential Tremor (ET), it is not known which muscle groups are more affected. The study was conducted to examine the relationship between tremor severity and proximal and distal muscle strength and upper extremity functional skills in older adults with ET. A total of 40 older adults who were diagnosed with ET (mean age of 74.07 ± 4.83years) and 40 older adults without tremor (mean age of 70.10 ± 4.05years) were included in the study. Tremor severity was evaluated with the Fahn-Tolosa-Marin Tremor Rating Scale (FTMTRS), the proximal muscular strength with digital muscle dynamometer, handgrip strength with hand dynamometer, and pinch grip strength with pinchmeter. The Arm and Shoulder Problems Questionnaire (DASH) was used to determine the functional status of the upper extremities. Fine Manual Dexterity was measured with the Nine-Hole Peg Test (NHPT). All proximal and distal muscle strengths were significantly lower, DASH and NHPT were significantly higher in the group with ET (p < 0.05). A significant negative correlation was detected between tremor severity and all proximal and distal muscular strength and a significant positive correlation between tremor severity and DASH in group with ET (p < 0.05). However, no significant correlations were found between tremor severity and NHPT in the group with ET. It was found that older adults who had tremors had low proximal and distal muscular strength, upper extremity functionality was affected and hand skills was impaired. Furthermore tremor severity is affected by both proximal and distal muscle strength.

Effect of 3D-MOT training on the execution of manual dexterity skills in a population of older adults with mild cognitive impairment and mild dementia

Computerized cognitive training tools are an alternative to preventive treatments related to cognitive impairment and aging. In this study, the transfer of 3D multiple object tracking (3D-MOT) training on manual dexterity concerning fine and gross motor skills in 38 elderly participants, half of them with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and the other half with mild dementia (MD) was explored. A total of 36 sessions of the 3D-MOT training program were administered to the subjects. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test was used to assess the baseline cognitive status of the participants. Two batteries of manual motor skills (GPT and MMDT) were applied before and after the 3D-MOT training program. The results showed an interaction effect of training and improvement in manual dexterity tests, from the first training session until the fifteenth session, and after this range of sessions, the interaction effect was lost. However, the training effect continued to the end of the thirty-six-session program. The experimental results show the effect of cognitive training on the improvement of motor skills in older adults. This type of intervention could have a broad impact on the aging population in terms of their attention, executive functions, and therefore, their quality of life.

Handgrip strength in older adults and driving aptitude.

to analyze handgrip strength as a predictor of the inability to drive in older adults. a cross-sectional study conducted in traffic clinics with 421 older adults in Curitiba-Paraná from January 2015 to December 2018. A sociodemographic and clinical questionnaire, handgrip strength test, and queries from the National Registry of Qualified Drivers form were applied. Reduced handgrip strength was not a predictor of inaptitude for vehicular driving (p=0.649). The predictors of inaptitude were: low education (p=0.011), incomplete elementary education (p=0.027), and cognition (p=0.020). reduced handgrip strength was not shown to predict for loss of driving skills in older adults. Low education level and reduced cognition level are conditions that were shown to be predictors for loss of vehicular driving license.

Effects of Online Choir or Mindfulness Interventions on Auditory Perception and Well-Being in Middle- and Older-Aged Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Previous work suggests that both choir and mindfulness training may improve well-being and auditory skills in older adults. This randomized control trial investigated the effects of a 10-week online choir or mindfulness program on speech-in-noise (SIN) perception. We collected multiple measures of auditory perception and attention, and multiple measures of socioemotional well-being in adults (N = 61) aged 50–65. We observed that both interventions improved SIN perception in high-noise conditions, decreased anxiety, and increased global well-being, mindfulness, and self-transcendence. Choir participants, compared to their own performance, showed improvements in additional noise conditions of the SIN task relative to mindfulness participants. Choir training produced greater advantages than mindfulness training in reducing state anxiety and improving melodic interval discrimination. These findings provide preliminary evidence for improvements in selected well-being and auditory measures as a result of online singing and mindfulness interventions in middle-aged and older adults in the US during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Health literacy mediates the effects of educational attainment on online pharmacy navigation skills in older adults with HIV disease

Objective The Internet serves an increasingly critical role in health behaviors for older adults with chronic medical conditions. Guided by theories of health behaviors and literacy, this study examined whether the relationship between educational attainment and online pharmacy skills in older persons with HIV disease (PWH) is mediated by health literacy. Design: Participants included 98 PWH age 50 and older who completed the Test of Online Pharmacy Skills (TOPS), which required them to navigate an experimenter-controlled online pharmacy to perform several naturalistic tasks (e.g., refill an existing prescription). Participants also completed the Medication-Management Test-Revised (MMT-R). Results: Mediation analyses revealed a significant indirect effect of education on both online pharmacy accuracy and MMT-R, which was fully mediated by health literacy. In contrast, there was no direct or indirect effect of education on online pharmacy speed when health literacy was included as a mediator. Conclusion: Health literacy plays an important role in the relationship between years of education attained and the ability of older PWH to successfully navigate online pharmacy tasks and manage their medications. Future studies might examine whether interventions to improve electronic health literacy among older PWH who have lower educational attainment have beneficial effects on online health behaviors.

Evaluation of adaption skills in older adults using behavioural and EEG repeated measurements during a visual oddball object detection task

AbstractBackgroundAdaptation to new demands is a fundamental skill that relies on the neuroplasticity of the brain. The breadth of this adaptation (an aspect of cognitive function) is reduced with ageing and is further perturbed with amnesic mild cognitive impairment. Perturbed adaptation skills could be a potential marker of early cognitive deficits, which is key for early diagnosis. Here we aim to investigate behavioural and neurophysiological adaptation to a gamified tablet‐based version of the visual oddball paradigm in older adults across 12 weeks.Method89 neurotypical older adults (mean age: 58.7 years, SD: 8.89; mean MoCA score: 27.1, SD: 1.8; 77.5% female) were asked to perform a gamified 2‐stimulus visual oddball paradigm 5 times a week during a 3‐month period, while neurophysiology was recorded with a 16‐channel EEG headset designed for unsupervised use in the home. A session event‐related potential (ERP) was calculated per channel, which was then downsampled into 8‐ms bins. To assess the effect of session on the ERP signal and on the average reaction time (RT), we statistically tested two mixed effects models (per channel‐temporal bin): i) a reference model, with covariates and subject as a random effect; and ii) an across‐sessions model, with Session added as a fixed effect to the reference model.ResultBehaviourally, RTs to Target stimulus were significantly faster across sessions. RTs in the first session and the rate of improvement between the 1st and 2nd sessions were modulated by the MoCA score. In response to the Target stimulus, there were amplitude increases with session overlapping the P300 component on frontal channels (FCz, Fpz), and on parietal channels (CPz, Cz, P3, P4). In response to the Non Target stimulus, there was a higher amplitude with Session in FC3 between 209.9‐242 ms, and in Fpz between 482.6‐514.7 ms.ConclusionA gamified visual oddball task is sensitive to MoCA score categorization at baseline and early stages of adaptation in neurotypical subjects. Potential neurophysiological adaptation, accompanying the behavioural adaptation, is suggested by EEG P300 amplitudes that increase across sessions.

Neuropsychological aspects of internet-based transit navigation skills in older adults

ABSTRACT Older adults commonly experience difficulties efficiently searching the Internet, which can adversely affect daily functioning. This study specifically examined the neuropsychological aspects of online transit planning in 50 younger (M = 22 years) and 40 older (M = 64 years) community-dwelling adults. All participants completed a neuropsychological battery, questionnaires, and measures of Internet use and skills. Participants used a live transit planning website to complete three inter-related tasks (e.g., map a route from an airport to a specific hotel at a particular time). On a fourth Internet transit task, participants were randomized into either a support condition in which they received brief goal management training or into a control condition. Results showed that older adults were both slower and less accurate than their younger counterparts in completing the first three Internet transit tasks. Within the older adults, Internet transit accuracy showed a medium association with verbal memory, executive functions, and auditory attention, but not visuomotor speed, which was the only domain associated with Internet transit task speed in both groups. The goal management training was beneficial for plan development in younger, but not older adults. The planning supports did not impact actual Internet transit task performance in either group. Findings indicate that older adults experience difficulties quickly and accurately using a transit website to plan transportation routes, which is associated with poorer higher-order neurocognitive functions (e.g., memory). Future work might examine the benefits of established memory strategies (e.g., spaced retrieval practice) for online transit planning.

Evaluation of a Novel Technology-Based Program Designed to Assess and Train Everyday Skills in Older Adults.

Background and ObjectivesPerformance of everyday activities is often challenging for older adults. We evaluated a novel computer-based functional skills assessment and training (CFSAT) program, which includes simulations of everyday tasks (e.g., money and medication management).Research Design and MethodsThe sample included noncognitively impaired (NC) older adults (n = 51) and cognitively impaired (CI) older adults (n = 43), who ranged in age from 60 to 86 years (M = 73.12; SD = 6.06), were primarily female (90%), and ethnically diverse (23% Hispanic, 51% African American). Participants (stratified by cognitive status) were randomized to 1 of the 2 conditions training alone (CFSAT) or CFSAT with computerized cognitive training and trained up to 24 training sessions. Task performance, using measures of completion time and efficiency (accuracy/completion time), was evaluated at baseline, the final training session, and immediately posttraining with an alternate form of the CFSAT assessment.ResultsBoth NC and CI participants demonstrated significant performance improvements across all tasks following training (all ps < .001). The CI participants demonstrated reduced training gains compared to the NC participants (all ps < .001). Training gains did not vary as a function of training conditions.Discussion and ImplicationsThe findings suggest that CFSAT is an efficacious program for assessing and training everyday task performance. CFSAT can ultimately be used as an intervention strategy to enhance functional independence for aging adults with and without cognitive impairments.

Effects of Cognitive Versus Mind-Motor Training on Cognition and Functional Skills in the Community-Dwelling Older Adults.

Background:There is a decline in cognitive and functional skills in older adults. The objective of this study was to compare the effects of cognitive and mind-motor training (MMT) on cognition and functional skills in a community-dwelling sample of older adults.Methods:In this observer-blinded randomized clinical trial, 40 older adults with medical stability, ability to comprehend and respond to simple verbal instructions, no diagnosed psychological disorders, absence of severe visual and hearing problems, the capacity to walk independently, and a score of more than 46 in Berg Balance Scale were included. They were randomly allocated into cognitive or MMT groups. Cognitive training (CT) was practiced with activities for memory and attention, using paper–pencil tasks. MMT was practiced using a simple, indoor based square-stepping exercise. They practiced one-hour of training per day, three days a week, for eight weeks.Results:General linear model analysis showed that the time by groups was not statistically significant. The mean (standard deviation) scores in General Practitioner Assessment of Cognition Scale and Hindi Mental State Examination improved significantly (P < 0.001) following MMT [1.75 (1.29); 2.4 (1.34)] and CT [1.5 (1.36); 2.7 (0.99)]. The functional skills measured using Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale revealed beneficial changes for both the groups. None of the outcomes were statistically significant between the groups (P > 0.05).Conclusion:Both cognitive and MMTs showed similar practice effects on cognition and functional skills in community-dwelling older adults.

Driving Skills in Older Adults

Driving Skills in Older Adults