Impact of Combined Motor and Cognitive Training on Balance in Older Adults: Assessing the Efficacy of Dual-Task Training in Reducing Fall Risk and Enhancing Stability

Authors: Munirah M. Alfawzan, Raghad O. Ajzajy, Sara J. Alharbi,, Aljaoharah S. Aldhubaiban, May F. Aljasir

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13335597

Short DOI: https://doi.org/gt69zj

Country: Saudi Arabia

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Abstract: Objective: This study assessed the impact of combined motor and cognitive training on balance, fall risk, and functional mobility in older adults.

Methods: A total of 60 participants aged 65 and older were randomly assigned to one of three groups: combined motor and cognitive training, motor training only, or cognitive training only. Each group underwent their respective training for 60 minutes, three times a week over 12 weeks. Balance was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), fall risk was measured by the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), and functional mobility was evaluated with the Dynamic Gait Index (DGI).

Results: The combined training group demonstrated significant improvements in balance (BBS: baseline 42.5, post-intervention 47.8, p=0.035), reduced fall risk (TUG: baseline 15.3 seconds, post-intervention 12.8 seconds, p=0.042), and enhanced functional mobility (DGI: baseline 18.6, post-intervention 22.3, p=0.029) compared to the motor and cognitive training-only groups. The motor training group showed moderate improvements, while the cognitive training group exhibited minimal changes.

Conclusion: Combined motor and cognitive training effectively improves balance, reduces fall risk, and enhances functional mobility in older adults. This integrated approach offers a more comprehensive strategy for managing balance impairments compared to single-task training.

Keywords: Combined Training, Balance, Fall Risk, Functional Mobility, Older Adults, Motor Training, Cognitive Training

Paper Id: 231030

Published On: 2023-04-04

Published In: Volume 11, Issue 2, March-April 2023

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