Evolving Methods of Hybrid Exercise-cognition Approach to Promote Health-related Conditions for the Elderly With MCI

Evolving Methods of Hybrid Exercise-cognition Approach to Promote Health-related Conditions for the Elderly With Mild Cognitive Impairment

The aim of the study is to determine: (1) the effects of combined physical exercise and cognitive training versus exercise or cognitive training alone on cognition, physical function, daily function, quality of life and social participation outcomes, (2) determine the relative effects of simultaneous vs. sequential combination of physical exercise and cognitive training on these health-related outcomes, (3) determine the long-term effects of different types of trainings on these outcome measures.

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or minor neurocognitive disorder involves problems with memory, executive function and language. The age-adjusted prevalence of MCI in Taiwan is approximately 18%. The progression rate from MCI to dementia ranges from 10 to 15% each year, and over 50% of the MCI population will develop into severe cognitive impairment or dementia in five years. Early detection and intervention of the individuals with MCI may help delay or prevent progress from MCI to dementia, and reduce the burden of their caregivers and the medical expenses of the health-care system. Whilst numerous studies have established the potential benefits of cognitive or physical exercise training on cognition for individuals with MCI, some recent studies suggested that combining physical exercise and cognitive training may augment the intervention effects. Also, different combination methods - combining physical exercise and cognitive training either sequentially or simultaneously under a dual-task paradigm may impose differential cognitive challenges on the participants, and it is yet not clear which combination strategy has better training effects.

Inclusion Criteria:

• able to follow instruction,
• age 55 to 90 years old,
• clinical dementia rating (CDR) = 0.5 or 1,
• self- or informant-reported memory or cognitive complaints,
• able to perform activities of daily living (Barthel Index ≥ 70).

Exclusion Criteria:

• Participants will be excluded if they have recent myocardial infarction, heart failure, recent heart surgery, severe asthma, concomitant with other neurological disorders, or joint deformity that might prevents them performing exercise or cognitive training.