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Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation May Improve Cognitive-Motor Function in Functionally Limited Older Adults
Brad Manor1,2,3, Junhong Zhou1,2,3, Rachel Harrison1
11 Institute for Aging Research, Hebrew SeniorLife, Roslindale, MA, USA.
Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair
|August 23, 2018
Summary
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) improved executive function and dual-tasking abilities in older adults with functional limitations. These cognitive and motor benefits were sustained for two weeks post-intervention.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Older adults often experience combined motor and cognitive impairments, affecting daily functioning.
- Executive dysfunction and slow walking speed are common in this population.
- Dual-tasking deficits are a significant predictor of falls and functional decline in aging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) tDCS on cognition, mobility, and dual-task performance in older adults.
- To assess the durability of tDCS effects on cognitive and motor functions.
- To explore the relationship between initial response to tDCS and long-term outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A double-blinded, randomized, sham-controlled trial involving 18 older adults (≥65 years) with motor and cognitive impairments.
- Ten 20-minute sessions of active tDCS (anode over left dlPFC, cathode over right supraorbital) or sham stimulation.
- Assessment of cognition (Montreal Cognitive Assessment), mobility (Timed Up-and-Go), and dual-task standing/walking at baseline, post-intervention, and 2-week follow-up.
Main Results:
- Active tDCS significantly improved Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores, particularly executive function, compared to sham (P=.002).
- tDCS enhanced dual-task standing and walking performance, with effects persisting for 2 weeks (P<.05).
- No significant effects were observed on the Timed Up-and-Go test or Geriatric Depression Scale.
Conclusions:
- tDCS targeting the left dlPFC shows potential as a non-invasive intervention to improve executive function and dual-tasking in older adults with functional limitations.
- The observed improvements in cognitive-motor performance suggest tDCS could enhance functional independence and reduce fall risk.
- Individual response to initial tDCS sessions may predict longer-term treatment efficacy.
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