The Effects of Single Exercise Sessions on Cognitive Flexibility and Brain Functional Connectivity in Older Adults With Cognitive Impairment

The Effects of Different Forms of Single Exercise Sessions on Cognitive Flexibility and Brain Functional Connectivity in Older Adults With Cognitive Impairment: A Single-Blind, Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial

Objectives: To investigate the effects of different forms (physical and mental, aerobic and resistance) of single exercise on the cognitive flexibility and brain functional connectivity of elderly individuals with cognitive impairment.

Clinical trail Methods: This study employed a single-blind, multi-center randomized controlled trial. Sixty elderly individuals with cognitive impairment were recruited and randomly divided into the Qigong group (15 participants), the brisk walking group (15 participants), the elastic band group (15 participants), and the control group (15 participants). Before and after the intervention, 5-minute resting-state electroencephalogram signals were collected and cognitive flexibility tests were conducted. The Qigong group, the brisk walking group, and the elastic band group received single sessions of Qigong, brisk walking, and elastic band exercises respectively, while the control group received health education. The exercise intensity was moderate (target heart rate was 64%-76% of the maximum heart rate), and the exercise duration was 30 minutes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age ≥ 60 years old, gender not restricted;
• Patients or their guardians report subjective cognitive decline;
• Montreal Cognitive Function Assessment Scale < 26 points;
• Duration of cognitive dysfunction ≥ 6 months;
• Willing to sign the informed consent form;
• Good physical condition and able to complete the test;
• Right-handed.

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of severe mental disorders (severe depression, schizophrenia, etc.);
• Using drugs that affect cognition (such as sedatives, antidepressants, etc.);
• Limited language ability;
• Consumed caffeine or alcohol the day before the test;
• Suffering from serious diseases or injuries that make participation in the test inappropriate.