Vision, Visuomotor and Executive Function in Older Adults with a History of Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is associated with negative sequelae affecting sensorimotor and executive functions. Conversely, age-related decline in these functions is also well documented. The current study examined the accelerating aging hypothesis by assessing vision, fine motor skills and executive function in older individuals with a history of TBI. It was hypothesized that the age-related reduction in function would be exacerbated in individuals with TBI.

Participants (n = 27) were community-dwelling older adults (mean age 74.6 years, SD 6.8; 14 females). The history of TBI was determined using the Ohio State University TBI Identification Method (n = 13). The visual examination included visual acuity, contrast sensitivity and binocular vision. Visuomotor control was assessed using a precision grasping and placement task. The antisaccade task was used to evaluate executive functions. Participants with a history of TBI also completed questionnaires assessing quality of life.

There were no significant differences between the groups for the vision tests or fine motor skill assessment. In contrast, the oculomotor test revealed significantly longer saccade latency in the group with a history of TBI (10%-12% difference, p < 0.05). Exploratory analysis showed a significant negative association between the antisaccade latency and lower participation score on the Sydney Psychosocial Reintegration Scale.

Results indicate that oculomotor testing is a sensitive behavioral assay of executive functions in older adults and differentiates between healthy adults and those with a history of TBI. The significant saccade latency slowing supports the accelerating aging hypothesis, while the association with community participation suggests an impact on lifestyle.