EVALUATING COGNITIVE-CYCLE DUAL-TASK TRAINING FOR DEMENTIA REHABILITATION IN THE ELDERLY

Dementia is a growing challenge in aging societies, affecting both cognitive and physical health. Dual-task training, which integrates cognitive and physical exercises, may yield synergistic benefits by engaging brain and body functions simultaneously. In this study, the effectiveness of a cognitive-cycle dual-task training system that combines cycling with cognitive tasks in elderly individuals with dementia was evaluated. Twenty-two participants aged 70 or older with diagnosed dementia were assigned randomly to either a single-task group (cognitive training only) or a dual-task group (cognitive training with cycling). Over eight weeks, the participants completed 24 training sessions. Cognitive function was assessed using computerized neurocognitive tests, and skeletal muscle mass was measured through body composition analysis. The study encountered limitations, including a high dropout rate and comorbid conditions, which affected data completeness and statistical power. Both groups showed modest improvements in cognitive function, with slightly better performance in the dual-task group. The dual-task group demonstrated improvements in skeletal muscle mass indicators, including the appendicular skeletal muscle index. However, the overall efficacy of the intervention was constrained by severe cognitive impairments among participants, health-related complications, and low adherence. Because of the small postintervention sample size, no statistically significant differences were observed. Cognitive-cycle dual-task training demonstrated potential to mitigate both cognitive and physical decline in individuals with dementia. However, its effectiveness may be limited for individuals with severe cognitive impairment. Future studies should focus on participants with mild dementia, extend the intervention periods, and enhance participant engagement to improve adherence and outcomes.