The Effectiveness of Dual Task Training in Elderly With Cognitive Decline

The Effectiveness of Dual Task Training in Elderly With Cognitive Decline

Cognitive decline is the impairment of memory, execution, or language. Early detection of the individuals who manifest cognitive decline and provide appropriate interventions may help reduce the burden of their caregivers and the medical expenses of the health-care system. Many studies have found that dual-task training combining cognitive training and exercise can improve cognitive function in older adults. However, it is yet not clear the appropriate frequency of the effective dual-task training for elderly with cognitive decline. Thus, this study aims to compare the intervention effects of high frequency sequential and low frequency dual-task training for elderly with cognitive decline.

Cognitive decline is the impairment of memory, execution, or language. Early detection of the individuals who manifest cognitive decline and provide appropriate interventions may help reduce the burden of their caregivers and the medical expenses of the health-care system. Many studies have found that dual-task training combining cognitive training and exercise can improve cognitive function in older adults. However, it is yet not clear the appropriate frequency of the effective dual-task training for elderly with cognitive decline. Thus, this study aims to compare the intervention effects of high frequency sequential and low frequency dual-task training for elderly with cognitive decline.

We anticipate recruiting a total of 80 participants with cognitive decline. The participants will be assigned into 2 groups: high frequency dual-task training (HF) and low frequency dual-task training (LF) groups. The participants of HF will receive a total of 36 training sessions, and each session will contain 90-120 minutes of training. The participants of LF will receive a total of 12 training sessions, and each session will contain 90-120 minutes of training. The programs are based on dual-task trainings which contain cognitive training and exercise simultaneously. For physical exercise, we will design the programs that involve balance or strength training components in the aerobic exercises. In terms of cognitive training, we will design self-made teaching aids and board games to train different domains of cognitive functions. We plan to assess the participants before and after the intervention programs. We expect that elders receiving dual-task training will improve on outcome measures, and the group with more frequency will have better performance. The results of the study will provide evidence of interventions for elderly with cognitive decline, thereby reducing the burden on their caregivers and the cost of medical resource.

Inclusion Criteria:

• able to follow instruction (MMSE>= 20)
• self- or informant-reported memory or cognitive complaint.

Exclusion Criteria:

• 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.