Effects of a 6-month dual-task, power-based exercise program on cognitive function, neurological and inflammatory markers in older adults: secondary analysis of a cluster randomised controlled trial

Review written by Mike Studer info

Key Points

  1. Dual tasking has consistently proven to be more effective than cognitive stimulation alone, for improving the cognition of older adults.
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BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE

Age-associated cognitive decline and dementia pose significant public health challenges for which there is no cure. Regular exercise, including aerobic training, progressive resistance training (PRT) or the combination, can elicit cognitive benefits in healthy older adults and those with cognitive impairment.

This article is a secondary analysis of data from a randomized controlled trial by Tait and colleagues, it offers a practical perspective on how people can leverage the sciences of dual task and power training, to improve biomarkers of health.

The objective of this study was to assess whether a 6-month, dual-task multi-component functional power training (DT-FPT) program could improve cognitive function and circulating levels of neurological and inflammatory biomarkers, compared to usual care in older adults at increased falls risk living independently in retirement villages.

Age-associated cognitive decline and dementia pose significant public health challenges for which there is no cure.
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Dual tasking can be an efficient and effective method to deliver these stimuli to our older patients.

METHODS

  • This study was well-powered with over 300 subjects aged 65 and older from over 22 independent living retirement communities.
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