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European Review of Aging and Physical Activity

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Open Access 01-12-2020 | Review article

The effects of cognitive-motor training interventions on executive functions in older people: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Authors: Bettina Wollesen, Alicia Wildbredt, Kimberley S. van Schooten, Mei Ling Lim, Kim Delbaere

Published in: European Review of Aging and Physical Activity | Issue 1/2020

Abstract

Background

Ageing is associated with physical and cognitive decline, affecting independence and quality of life in older people. Recent studies show that in particular executive functions are important for daily-life function and mobility. This systematic review investigated the effectiveness of cognitive-motor training including exergaming on executive function (EF, set-shifting, working memory, inhibitory control) in healthy older people.

Methods

An electronic database search for randomised controlled trials (RCT), controlled clinical trials (CCT) and parallel group trials was performed using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsychINFO following PRISMA guidelines. Inclusion criteria were: (1) community-dwelling participants > 60 years without a medical condition or medical treatment, (2) reporting at least one cognitive-motor intervention while standing or walking, (3) use of dual-task interventions using traditional methods or modern technology to deliver a cognitive-motor task, (4) inclusion of at least one cognitive outcome. The PEDro scale was used for quality assessment.

Results

A total of 1557 studies were retrieved, of which 25 studies were included in this review. Eleven studies used a technology-based dual-task intervention, while 14 trials conducted a general cognitive-motor training. The age range of the cohort was 69 to 87 years. The interventions demonstrated positive effects on global cognitive function [mean difference 0.6, 95% CI 0.29–0.90] and inhibitory control [mean difference 0.61, 95% CI 0.28–0.94]. Effects were heterogeneous (I² range: 60–95) and did not remain after a sensitivity analysis. Processing speed and dual-task costs also improved, but meta-analysis was not possible.

Conclusion

Cognitive-motor and technology-based interventions had a positive impact on some cognitive functions. Dual-task interventions led to improvements of domains related global cognitive functions and inhibitory control. Likewise, technology-based exergame interventions improved functions related to processing speed, attentional and inhibitory control. Training interventions with a certain level of exercise load such as progression in difficulty and task specificity were more effective to gain task-related adaptations on cognitive functions.

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Title: The effects of cognitive-motor training interventions on executive functions in older people: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Bettina Wollesen
Alicia Wildbredt
Kimberley S. van Schooten
Mei Ling Lim
Kim Delbaere
Publication date: 01-12-2020
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: European Review of Aging and Physical Activity / Issue 1/2020
Print ISSN: 1813-7253
Electronic ISSN: 1861-6909
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s11556-020-00240-y

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