Enhancing Cognitive Health in Aging: The Power of Physio-Cognitive Dual-task Training
As we age, our cognitive abilities often decline, a phenomenon accentuated in neurocognitive disorders (NCDs). Physio-Cognitive Dual-task Training (PCDT) has emerged as a promising intervention. This method combines physical activity with cognitive exercises, addressing both mental and physical aspects of aging. The study rigorously analyzed 26 randomized controlled trials, encompassing 1,949 participants. Results show that PCDT notably enhances cognition, everyday functional abilities, and overall quality of life in older individuals. Importantly, these improvements are not just minimal; they span from moderate to significant, making PCDT a valuable tool in the toolkit against cognitive decline in aging.
The approach of PCDT is holistic, targeting both the mind and body. It moves beyond traditional interventions that focus solely on physical or cognitive aspects. By engaging older adults in activities that challenge both their physical and mental faculties, PCDT offers a comprehensive strategy to maintain and improve cognitive health. This finding is crucial for developing future health programs for the elderly, particularly those with NCDs, ensuring they lead fuller, more engaged lives.
Article Information
Effect of physio-cognitive dual-task training on cognition in pre-ageing and older adults with neurocognitive disorders: A meta-analysis and meta-regression of randomized controlled trial
Arch Gerontol Geriatr. Xian Li Hong et al.
Abstract
Declines in cognitive performance, such as those seen in neurocognitive disorders (NCDs) are often associated with ageing. Both physical activity and cognitive training are common interventional strategies that can mitigate the decline in cognitive and physical performance. This review aims to (1) to evaluate the effects of Physio-Cognitive Dual-task Training (PCDT) intervention on cognition, physical performance, activities of daily living (ADL) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in pre-ageing and older adults with neurocognitive disorders, (2) explore the effects of covariates on intervention outcomes. A systematic search was conducted in eight databases. Cochrane's Risk of Bias Tool version 1 and GRADE criteria were used to assess risk of bias and certainty of evidence, respectively. Meta-analysis and meta-regression analyses were conducted using R software. Twenty-six randomized controlled trials involving 1,949 pre-ageing and older adults with NCDs were included in the meta-analysis. PCDT interventions had small-to-medium effect size on all cognition outcomes (g = 0.40-0.52) and instrumental ADL (g == 0.42), and a large effect size on HRQoL (g = 0.72). The quality of evidence was rated moderate to low for the outcome measures in pre-ageing and older adults with NCDs. These findings highlight the importance of PCDT interventions in preventing and slowing down cognitive impairment in pre-ageing and older adults. Registration: PROSPERO Number (CRD42020213962).
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