Age-Related Interference between the Selection of Input-Output Modality Mappings and Postural Control-a Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Gerontology
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Age-related decline in executive functions and postural control increases fall risk.
• Cognitive-postural dual-task interference is observed in older adults, but specific executive functions involved are under-researched.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if postural control impairment in older adults is linked to response-selection processes (modality compatibility) or working-memory load during dual-tasking.
• To compare these effects between young and older healthy female adults.

Main Methods:

• Participants (young: 19-30, old: 66-84 years) performed a spatial one-back working memory task during semi-tandem stance on an unstable surface.
• Tasks varied in modality compatibility (compatible/incompatible) and cognitive load (single/dual task).
• Postural control was assessed via center of pressure (CoP) displacements using a force plate; tasks were also performed while sitting.

Main Results:

• Older adults showed general performance decline under high working memory load (dual vs. single task).
• Modality compatibility significantly impacted performance in dual-tasks for older adults, but not single-tasks.
• The modality incompatible dual task selectively increased CoP displacements in older adults compared to the compatible dual task.

Conclusions:

• Postural control in older adults is impaired not only by working memory load but also by overcoming input-output modality incompatibilities.
• These findings highlight the role of cognitive control processes, specifically response selection, in maintaining balance in aging.
• Preliminary data suggest age-specific interference between cognitive executive functions and postural control.