Online Group-based Dual-task Training to Improve Cognitive Function of Community-dwelling Older Adults

Online Group-based Dual-task Training to Improve Cognitive Function of Community-dwelling Older Adults: A Feasibility Study

Objectives: This study aims to explore the feasibility, acceptance, and efficacy of online group-based dual-task training as an intervention for improving cognitive function among community-dwelling older adults.

Hypothesis to be tested: We hypothesize that after the intervention, there will be an improvement in the participants' cognitive function as compared with pre-intervention status and with the control group. Also, lower-limb muscle strength and psychosocial wellbeing will be improved after the intervention.

Design and subjects: This is a randomised controlled feasibility study. The target population is community-dwelling older adults with access to an online meeting platform. About 75 participants will be recruited and randomised to the intervention and attention control groups in a ratio of 2:1. Intervention group will receive 60 minutes of online group-based dual-task training twice a week for 12 weeks led by a trained facilitator. Cognitive training components include arithmetic operation, verbal fluency, and upper limb/finger movement. Physical training components are chair-based exercises. The training components will be selected using a co-design approach.

Instruments: Memory Inventory in Chinese (MIC), Digit Span Test, Victoria Stroop Test, Montreal Cognitive Assessment 5-Minutes (Hong Kong Version).

Main outcome measures: Subjective memory complaints as measured by MIC.

Inclusion Criteria:

• aged 65 years and above,
• no communication problems,
• able to communicate in Chinese, and
• able to use an online meeting platform.

Exclusion Criteria:

• contraindications to chair-based exercises, and
• engagement in any kind of cognitive training three months prior to the study or during the study period.