Impact of Cognitive-Motor Dual-Task Training on Predictive Brain Functions and Functional Performance of Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Study

Cognitive-motor dual-task (CMDT) training has been widely recognized as an effective method for counteracting age-related declines in physical and cognitive processes. These benefits were associated with increased activity in the frontal cortex; however, it is unclear at which stage of task processing these effects occur. Here, we tested the effect of CMDT training on predictive brain function in healthy older adults compared to standard motor training. Sixty healthy participants (mean age 73.2 years, range 65–82 years, 41 females, 19 males) were randomly divided into two groups, and all attended five weeks of standard exercise for older people, one hour twice a week. In the experimental group, the last 20′ of the training session were enriched with CMDT exercises using interactive devices. Functional motor performance and a cognitive task, executed during electroencephalographic recording, were assessed before (T0) and after (T1) the training. Motor and cognitive predictive brain functions required by a cognitive task were assessed by measuring the preparatory event-related potential. Results confirmed the CMDT superiority compared to motor training on both motor and cognitive performance. The effect on frontal cortex activity was confirmed, but we showed that these effects happen during the predictive stage of processing required by a cognitive task. The CMDT training seems to increase both motor and cognitive control over cognitive tasks, resulting in improved mobility and behavioral performance. Results support the view that simultaneous engagement of cognitive and motor brain networks drives functional plasticity in late life. Thus, CMDT represents a pragmatic, neurophysiological grounded strategy for supporting healthy aging.