Dual-task Training for Function in MCI

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is an intermediate stage between the expected cognitive decline of normal aging and severe dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD). In the United States about 20% of older adults have MCI, and approximately 15% per year of those with MCI will progress to AD. With our rapidly aging society, we are approaching a public health crisis for which we are not fully prepared. Impaired cognitive function in aging can have far-reaching and devastating impacts on functional status, ability to maintain independence, and overall quality of life. Unfortunately, the therapeutic options to slow progression of cognitive decline in aging are limited.

Dual-task training that involves simultaneous cognitive and motor challenges improves certain domains of both cognitive and motor function in older adults with MCI. However, we do not yet know the optimal methods of delivering this high-impact potential therapy in community-based settings with unique limitations and strengths. Therefore, the aims are to; 1) test the feasibility of conducting a community-based dual-task (thinking while exercising) physical activity intervention among adults, 65 years or older, with MCI; and 2) examine the impact of dual-task training on attention and motor function among adults, 65 years or older, with MCI.

To accomplish these aims the investigators will conduct an 12-week, dual-task training program using the SmartFit Multisensory Fitness System (Oxnard, CA) among older adults with MCI. Our group-based training program involves two 1-hour training sessions per week, designed to simultaneously engage the mind and body, while promoting self-efficacy. Attention and motor function will be assessed prospectively.

The investigators anticipate that findings from this trial will inform development of methods to bring evidence-based, non-invasive therapies into communities in need, in order to preserve function, independence, and quality of life well into older age.

Inclusion criteria

• 65 years of age or older
• Male or female
• Mild (23 - 26 points) cognitive impairment as screened by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment
• Having no absolute contraindications to non-physician supervised exercise as guided by the American College of Sports Medicine and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Exclusion criteria

• Having any condition that prevents safe participation in non-physician supervised exercise as screened using the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Older Adults
• Blood pressure >180 mmHg systolic or 100 mmHg diastolic at baseline
• Presence of severe illness or disability
• Lower body amputation
• Cognitive Impairment beyond mild level, preventing provision of informed consent.