A facility-based “brain gym”: feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of a long-duration, low-frequency dual-task and exergaming intervention in older adults

Introduction Exercise programs that combine cognitive and physical challenges may support cognition in aging populations. This single-arm feasibility study evaluated the implementation and acceptability of a 12-month, facility-based dual-task training (DTT) and exergame (EXG) exercise program in older adults residing in a senior living community. Methods Secondary exploratory analyses examined preliminary effectiveness on cognitive outcomes. Seventy-five residents aged 65 years and older participated in a long-duration, low-frequency program combining DTT and EXG interventions in a senior living community, completing 8–24 sessions over a 12-month period. Cognitive outcomes were assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), CNS Vital Signs (CNSVS), and a subjective memory questionnaire. Within-subject changes were examined using non-parametric tests and effect sizes. Results Among the 75 participants enrolled in the program (mean age = 82.1 years; SD = 5.6, 61% female), feasibility endpoints were met, with 75% adherence to ≥16 sessions and no adverse events were reported. Exploratory analyses demonstrated statistically significant improvements in global cognition (MoCA; p < 0.0001, Cohen’s d = 0.61), composite cognitive performance (CNSVS; p < 0.0001, d = 0.45), and in selected measures of processing speed and executive functioning. No dose–response relationship was observed between the number of sessions attended and the change in cognitive outcomes. Discussion These findings suggest that a long-duration, low-frequency dual-task and exergame-enhanced program can be feasible and safe in a senior living setting and demonstrates preliminary evidence of cognitive benefit. Findings should be interpreted cautiously, given the single-arm design and the absence of a control group.