Effects of the Combination of Cognitive and Multicomponent Exercise on Balance and Neurocognitive Functions in Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment

초록

This study examined the effects of a multicomponent exercise program with integrated cognitive tasks on balance and neurocognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Forty-five participants were randomly assigned to a cognitive-exercise group (CEG), an exercise-only group (EG), or a control group (CG) and completed a 15-week intervention. Changes in balance (Mini-BESTest), general cognitive function (MMSE-K), and cognitive-motor response (simple and choice reaction time) were analyzed. Results showed significant between-group differences across all outcome measures (p < 0.001). Both CEG and EG demonstrated greater improvements in balance compared to CG, while CEG exhibited the most pronounced enhancements in general cognitive function. Improvements in reaction time were most evident in CEG, particularly in complex tasks requiring cognitive processing. These findings suggest that combining cognitive challenges with physical training can effectively enhance both motor and cognitive functions in older adults with MCI, supporting its potential as an effective intervention strategy. Future studies should explore its long-term effects and implications for delaying cognitive decline.

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