Exergame and cognitive-motor dual-task training in the healthy elderly (INCOME): a study protocol

Abstract

Background: Ageing is associated with a decrease in cognitive, motor, and dual-task capacities, leading to a possible loss in autonomy. Cognitive-motor dual-task training is known to be effective on these functions but suffers from low adherence level. On this point, exergames seem to be a promising solution. We aim to evaluate the effects of a new customized exergame on cognitive and motor capabilities in the elderly. Methods: Thirty-nine elderly persons (65 years old or above) will carry out 30 minutes of cognitive-motor dual-task training through our exergame, 3 times a week for 12 weeks. We will assess postural control under single and dual-task conditions (stabilometric platform), mental inhibition (Stroop test), mental flexibility (Trail Making Test), working memory (N-Back), mobility (Timed Up-and-Go), balance (Berg Balance Scale), fear of falling (Falls Efficacy Scale), quality of life (EuroQol), city exploration, and tracked (Armband®) or self-reported (QAPPA) physical activity level. Lastly, we will assess the safety (adverse events appearance) and the adhesion (compliance, drop-out, motivation) levels of this intervention. These evaluations will take place after the training protocol and after a 3-month follow-up. Discussion: This pilot study is expected to bring positive gains for the participants, as well as exploration of current knowledge gaps in the literature.