Multimodal Exercise and Cognitive Training Program Improves Cognitive Function in Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Neuroscience
• Exercise Science

Background:

• Older adults with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) often experience cognitive decline.
• Interventions combining physical exercise and cognitive training are being explored to mitigate cognitive impairment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the preliminary efficacy of a combined physical exercise and cognitive training intervention for older adults diagnosed with aMCI.
• To compare the effects of a combined aerobic and resistance exercise plus cognitive training (CARE+CT) versus stretching exercise plus cognitive training (SE+CT).

Main Methods:

• A randomized clinical trial involving 72 community-dwelling volunteers with aMCI.
• Participants were assigned to either CARE+CT or SE+CT interventions.
• Primary outcomes included word list and name-face recall; secondary outcomes assessed cognitive domains, VO2 max, and functional capacity.

Main Results:

• All participants showed improvements in delayed word list recall, learning, memory, and executive function.
• The CARE+CT group demonstrated significant improvements in processing speed and functional capacity.
• APOE4 status influenced the cognitive benefits observed in the SE+CT group.

Conclusions:

• Preliminary evidence supports the use of combined exercise and cognitive training interventions for individuals with aMCI.
• Further research is necessary to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and test these interventions in diverse populations.