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16-05-2024 | Dementia | Research Article

Impact of distinct cognitive domains on gait variability in individuals with mild cognitive impairment and dementia

Authors: Edward Ofori, PhD, Ferdinand Delgado, PhD, Dara L. James, PhD, Jeffrey Wilken, PhD, Laura M. Hancock, PhD, Glen M. Doniger, PhD, Mark Gudesblatt, MD

Published in: Experimental Brain Research | Issue 7/2024

Abstract

Background

Gait variability is a common feature in neurodegenerative diseases and has been linked to cognitive impairment. Despite this link, the influence of specific cognitive domains, such as memory, visual spatial skills, executive function, and verbal function on gait variability is not well-understood.

Objective

To investigate the predictive value of these specific cognitive domains on gait variability in people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia during preferred and dual task walking.

Method

One hundred and two participants with either MCI or dementia underwent a comprehensive cognitive assessment and completed preferred and dual-task walking trials on a pressure-sensing walkway. Gait variability was assessed using the PKMAS software. Lower extremity function was evaluated with a self-reported validated scale.

Results

Our findings indicate that only visual spatial abilities had a moderate predictive value on gait variability [F (1, 78) = 17.30, p < 0.01, r = 0.43], both in preferred pace walking (70% direct effect) and dual-task walking (90% direct effect) (p’s < 0.05). Additionally, lower extremity functional skills had a significant indirect effect (30%) on gait variability in preferred walking contexts.

Conclusion

For individuals diagnosed with MCI or dementia, increased gait variability may be driven by deficits in visual spatial processing. An increased understanding of the role of visual spatial processing in gait variability can aid in the assessment and management of individuals with MCI or dementia, potentially leading to targeted interventions to improve mobility and safety.

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Title: Impact of distinct cognitive domains on gait variability in individuals with mild cognitive impairment and dementia
Authors: Edward Ofori, PhD
Ferdinand Delgado, PhD
Dara L. James, PhD
Jeffrey Wilken, PhD
Laura M. Hancock, PhD
Glen M. Doniger, PhD
Mark Gudesblatt, MD
Publication date: 16-05-2024
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Keywords: Dementia
Dementia
Mild Neurocognitive Disorder
Published in: Experimental Brain Research / Issue 7/2024
Print ISSN: 0014-4819
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1106
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00221-024-06832-9

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Impact of distinct cognitive domains on gait variability in individuals with mild cognitive impairment and dementia

Abstract

Background

Objective

Method

Results

Conclusion

Advances in Alzheimer's

2024 ESC Congress

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Objective

Method

Results

Conclusion

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