A Study of Dual-task Exercise Training to Prevent Falls Among Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment

Dual-Task Training Exercise to Reduce Falls in Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment

To determine the efficacy of a dual-task tai ji quan training therapy in reducing the incidence of falls in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.

The primary aim of the study is to determine the comparative efficacy of two tai ji quan interventions (Dual-task tai ji quan, standard tai ji quan), relative to a stretching exercise control, in reducing the incidence of falls among community-dwelling older adults with mild cognitive impairment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• being 65 years and older
• having complaint of memory loss
• scoring ≤0.5 on Clinical Dementia Scale
• having had 1 or more falls in the preceding 12 months or scoring ≥12 seconds on the Timed Up and Go test

Exclusion Criteria:

• scoring <24 on the Mini-Mental State Examination
• being able to ambulate independently for household distances
• having medical clearance
• having participated in any regular and structured tai ji quan-based exercise programs (≥2 times weekly) in the preceding 6 months
• having a progressive neuromuscular disorder such as Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis
• being unwilling to be randomized