MULTI-MODAL TRAINING TO IMPROVE COGNITION, MOBILITY, AND BRAIN FUNCTIONING IN OLDER ADULTS

• Published in: Innovation in aging Vol. 1; no. suppl_1; p. 1365
• Main Author: Li, K.Z.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: US Oxford University Press 01-07-2017
• Subjects: Abstracts
• ISSN: 2399-5300; 2399-5300
• DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igx004.5021

A growing body of research argues for cross-over effects of training, such that exercise training leads to improved cognitive abilities and more efficient neural functioning (Bherer, Erickson, & Liu-Ambrose. 2013; Li, Yao, Cheng, et al., 2016). In parallel, computerized cognitive training has led to improved balance and mobility (Li, Roudaia, Lussier, et al., 2010). What underlies these cross-over effects may be the common cognitive functions and brain regions or networks that are jointly associated with cognitive and motor control. However, fewer studies have examined the potential synergistic effects of multi-modal training in the form of mixed cognitive and physical training schedules, virtual reality, computer gaming, or dual-task training (Basak, Boot, Voss, & Kramer, 2008; Mirelman, Maidan, Herman et al., 2011). This symposium presents recent work on this emerging topic, spanning a variety of approaches, such as gaming (Basak), virtual reality (Hasudorff), and combined exercise and cognitive training (Bherer, K. Li, C. Li). We will highlight a variety of outcomes measures including cognitive, motoric, and neural indices. We will discuss the influence of training format, task coherence, and trainee enjoyment and motivation on the magnitude of training-related gains. We will also discuss the specificity of training-related effects.