Cognitive and Motor Interventions for Physical Functioning in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Pichierri Giuseppe, Wolf Peter, Murer Kurt, de Bruin Eling D
Primary Institution: ETH Zurich, Switzerland
Hypothesis
Can cognitive and cognitive-motor interventions improve physical functioning in older adults and those with neurological impairments?
Conclusion
Cognitive and motor-cognitive interventions can enhance physical functioning, but the evidence is limited and varied.
Supporting Evidence
- 28 articles met the inclusion criteria for the review.
- Three articles used isolated cognitive rehabilitation, seven used dual-task interventions, and 19 used computerized interventions.
- Improvements were noted in postural control, walking abilities, and general functions of upper and lower extremities.
Takeaway
This study looked at how brain exercises and physical activities can help older people move better. It found that these activities can be helpful, but more research is needed.
Methodology
A systematic review of literature focusing on cognitive and cognitive-motor interventions for older adults and those with neurological impairments.
Potential Biases
Potential publication and language bias, as well as confounding bias due to the inclusion of observational studies.
Limitations
The studies included were heterogeneous and many lacked statistical power, making it difficult to generalize results.
Participant Demographics
Older adults over 65 and adults with neurological impairments, including stroke and traumatic brain injury.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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