Memo_Move: Effect of a dual-task exercise program on physical fitness in people aged ≥ 65 years from the community

Abstract

The elderly experience a progressive loss of cognitive and physiological functions, including cognitive impairment and loss of functional motor skills. It is estimated that by 2050 the number of people with dementia will reach 131.5 million worldwide (World Health Organization, 2015). In addition to cognitive and behavioural deficits, people with dementia have increased deficits in balance, gait and motor coordination, leading to an increased risk of falls. Physical activity offers several important benefits for individuals with Dementia. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a tailored dual-task exercise program on physical fitness in people over 65 years of age in the Fundão community. There was an overall improvement in all tests from pre-test to post-test. Significant differences were found in all the physical fitness tests, 6-minute walk, bending the arms, sitting and walking 2.44 m, sitting and getting up from a chair, sitting and reaching and reaching behind the back (p & lt; .05). There were significant improvements in cognitive functions in the parameters Visuospatial/executive, Nomination, Attention: sequence of numbers, Attention: subtraction, Abstraction: similarities, Memory: deferred recall, Orientation, MOCA Total Score, MOCA1 Normative Score (p & lt; .05). Dula task exercise programs may Exercise improves cognitive and physical functions and is an important contributor to functional independence.