Background: The progressive degeneration of neural function results in cognitive decline and reduced functions. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a transitional status between normal elderly and dementia. Previous studies indicated both physical training (PT) and cognitive training (CT) improved cognitive function in people with MCI. However, which one may be more effective is unknown. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of PT and CT on cognitive function and neural efficiency in people with MCI.
Methods: Thirty-three older adults with MCI were randomly assigned to PT (n=11), CT (n=11) or the control group (n=11). Both training groups received 30-min training per session, 3 sessions per week for 8 weeks. Control group receives health education provided by physical therapist. Outcomes included: cognitive function and brain activities measured by Functional near infrared spectroscopy during Frontal assessment battery (FAB).
Results: The improvements in executive function after PT (p= 0.017) and CT (p= 0.001) were significantly greater than the control group. Besides, the improvement in general cognitive function after PT was significantly better than in control group (p= 0.007). No significant differences were found between PT and CT group. Significantly decreased brain activities (p= 0.028) and comparable FAB score was noted after PT. In addition, significantly increased FAB score (p= 0.018) with comparable brain activation was found after CT.
Conclusions: Our results suggest that both PT and CT are effective training strategies to improve cognition with possible neural efficiency in people with MCI.

Authors:
Wei-Han Weng, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taiwan
Ray-Yau Wang, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taiwan
Yea-Ru Yang, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taiwan

About the Presenter(s)
Ms Wei-Han Weng is a University Postgraduate Student at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University in Taiwan

See this presentation on the full schedule – Wednesday Schedule

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