Dementia Care Research and Psychosocial Factors

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Neuroscience
• Public Health

Background:

• Gait performance and global cognitive functions are vital for independence in senior adults.
• Emerging research suggests a connection between gait and cognition, including executive functions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the relationship between gait performance and global cognitive function in older adults.
• To synthesize findings from peer-reviewed articles, pilot studies, and RCTs published between 2000 and 2024.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
• Inclusion of studies on gait and cognition in adults over 60.
• Exclusion of meta-analyses, non-English/Spanish publications, and studies on unrelated physical activities.

Main Results:

• A significant correlation exists between gait speed and global cognitive function in older adults; slower walking is associated with poorer cognition.
• Dual-task walking speed strongly correlates with working memory (p < .001) and processing speed (p < .05) in individuals over 60.
• Observed gender differences: women over 80 walked slower than men over 85, and women showed poorer global cognition.

Conclusions:

• Gait slowing (0.68-1.1 m/s) may predict dementia risk, suggesting gait speed monitoring as an early warning sign.
• Interventions targeting gait performance and global cognitive function can enhance independence and quality of life in older adults.