Assessing acute effects of two motor-cognitive training modalities on cognitive functions, postural control, and gait stability in older adults: a randomized crossover study

Abstract

Background The process of aging often accompanies a decline in cognitive function, postural control, and gait stability, consequently increasing the susceptibility to falls among older individuals. In response to these challenges, motor-cognitive training has emerged as a potential intervention to mitigate age-related declines. Objective This study aims to assess the acute effects of two distinct motor-cognitive training modalities, treadmill dual-task training (TMDT) and interactive motor-cognitive training (IMCT), on cognitive function, postural control, walking ability, and dual-task performance in the elderly population. Method In this randomized crossover study, 35 healthy elderly individuals (aged 60–75) participated in three acute training sessions involving TMDT, IMCT, and a control reading condition. Assessments of executive function, postural control, gait performance, and cognitive accuracy were conducted both before and after each session. Results Both TMDT and IMCT improved executive functions. Notably, IMCT resulted in a significant enhancement in correct response rates and a reduction in reaction times in the Stroop task (p < 0.05) compared to TMDT and the control condition. IMCT also led to an increase in dual-task gait speed (p < 0.001) and showed a trend towards improved cognitive accuracy (p = 0.07). Conversely, TMDT increased postural sway with eyes open (p = 0.013), indicating a potential detriment to postural control. Conclusion The findings suggest that IMCT holds greater immediate efficacy in enhancing cognitive function and gait stability among older adults compared to TMDT, with a lesser adverse impact on postural control. This underscores the potential of IMCT as a preferred approach for mitigating fall risk and enhancing both cognitive and physical functions in the elderly population.