Tai Chi versus conventional exercise for improving cognitive function in older adults: a pilot randomized controlled...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Gerontology
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Distinct brain mechanisms underlie Tai Chi and conventional exercise.
• These differences suggest varied impacts on cognitive function improvement.
• Older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) may benefit from targeted exercise interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of Tai Chi (TC) versus conventional exercise (EX) on cognitive function in older adults with MCI.
• To assess global cognitive function and specific cognitive domains over 24 weeks.
• To evaluate the potential for differential benefits of TC and EX on cognitive enhancement.

Main Methods:

• A parallel-group, assessor-blinded, pilot randomized controlled trial.
• 34 adults aged ≥50 years with MCI were randomized to TC, EX, or a control group (CON).
• Interventions lasted 24 weeks, with assessments at baseline, 12, and 24 weeks using the MoCA-HK and Trail Making Test.

Main Results:

• Both TC and EX groups significantly improved global cognitive function (MoCA-HK) compared to CON (P < 0.001).
• TC demonstrated clinically relevant global cognitive improvement by week 12, earlier than EX.
• TC showed superior improvements in global cognition at 12 weeks and cognitive flexibility throughout the study compared to EX (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

• Both Tai Chi and conventional exercise are effective in improving cognitive function in older adults with MCI.
• Tai Chi may offer faster improvements in global cognitive function and greater benefits for cognitive flexibility.
• Further research is warranted to confirm long-term benefits and elucidate the neurobiological mechanisms of Tai Chi and conventional exercise.