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Changes in executive function and gait in people with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer disease
Natália Oiring de Castro Cezar1, Juliana Hotta Ansai2, Marcos Paulo Braz de Oliveira1
1Department of Physical Therapy, Universidade Federal de São Carlos - São Carlos, SP, Brazil.
Abstract:
Changes in executive function and motor aspects can compromise the prognosis of older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and favor the evolution to dementia.
Objectives:
The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in executive function and gait and to determine the association between changes in these variables.
Methods:
A 32-month longitudinal study was conducted with 40 volunteers: 19 with preserved cognition (PrC), 15 with MCI and 6 with Alzheimer disease (AD). Executive function and gait speed were assessed using the Frontal Assessment Battery, the Clock-Drawing test and the 10-meter walk test. For data analysis, the Pearson product-moment correlation, two-way repeated-measures ANOVA, and chi-square were conducted.
Results:
After 32 months, an improvement in the executive function was found in all groups (p=0.003). At baseline, gait speed was slower in individuals with MCI and AD compared to those with PrC (p=0.044), that was maintained after the follow-up (p=0.001). There was significant increase in number of steps in all groups (p=0.001). No significant association was found between changes in gait speed and executive function.
Conclusions:
It should be taken into account that gait deteriorates prior to executive function to plan interventions and health strategies for this population.
Insights
Gait speed decline may precede executive function changes in older adults, suggesting targeted interventions for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia risk. Further research is needed to confirm this relationship.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Executive function and motor aspects significantly impact the prognosis of older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
- These changes can accelerate the progression from MCI to dementia.
- Understanding the interplay between cognitive and motor decline is crucial for early intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate longitudinal changes in executive function and gait in older adults.
- To determine the association between alterations in executive function and gait parameters.
- To identify potential early markers for cognitive decline progression.
Main Methods:
- A 32-month longitudinal study involving 40 volunteers across three groups: preserved cognition (PrC), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and Alzheimer disease (AD).
- Assessment of executive function using the Frontal Assessment Battery and Clock-Drawing test.
- Evaluation of gait speed via the 10-meter walk test.
Main Results:
- All groups showed improvement in executive function over 32 months (p=0.003).
- Individuals with MCI and AD exhibited slower baseline gait speed compared to PrC (p=0.044), a difference maintained post-follow-up (p=0.001).
- A significant increase in the number of steps was observed across all groups (p=0.001), with no significant association found between changes in gait speed and executive function.
Conclusions:
- Gait deterioration may precede executive function decline in older adults.
- This finding suggests prioritizing gait assessment for timely interventions.
- Health strategies should consider the distinct trajectories of motor and cognitive changes in aging populations.
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