C-26 Neuro-Exergaming for Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Single Bout of Interactive Physical and Cognitive Exercise (iPACES v2.5)

Abstract

Objective: Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) may be a precursor Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRDs). Identifying effective interventions to prevent or remediate cognitive decline is imperative given the increasing older population. Prior research has shown benefits to cognition of physical exercise, but only a fraction of older adults actually achieve recommended levels. Researchers have explored the use of potentially more motivating exergames and found benefits above and beyond physical exercise alone, perhaps due to synergistic effects of physical and mental engagement. The current study attempts to replicate and extend prior research by examining the impact on cognition of a single bout of a neuro-exergame in which older adults engaged interactive Physical and Cognitive Exercise (iPACES v2.5). Method: The iPACES neuro-exergame (v2.5) involves pedaling an under-table elliptical while playing an iPad-based videogame, which simulates an everyday function of independent living: running errands and retracing one's path home. Eighteen older adults (mean age = 68.4 years old) were assessed pre-and post-exercise with neuropsychological tests of executive function (Stroop and Trails) as well as verbal memory (ADAS Word Recall). Results: A repeated measures ANOVA (controlling for age) indicated significantly greater benefit to verbal memory for MCI participants in contrast with normative older adults (p = .008; Figure 1). Conclusion: Further research is needed to confirm this finding in a larger sample, but it is consistent with some prior research on single bouts of exercise benefiting cognition of MCI more than normative older adults. Follow-up trials are needed to examine long-term use, factors affecting outcomes, and underlying mechanisms.