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Assessment of Age-related Changes in Cognitive Functions Using EmoCogMeter, a Novel Tablet-computer Based Approach
Published on: February 14, 2014
Aging in motion: how age and age simulation shape dual-task walking and memory.
Anna Heggenberger1, Patrick Harth2, Sabine Schaefer2
1Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany. anna.heggenberger@uni-saarland.de.
Summary
Aging impairs dual-task performance, affecting gait and memory. An age simulation suit mimicked older adults' slower walking speed but not cognitive decline, highlighting age-related changes in attention and physical function.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology and Cognitive Neuroscience
- Biomechanics and Motor Control
Background:
- Aging leads to functional declines impacting daily activities, particularly dual-tasking.
- Dual-tasking, like walking while thinking, challenges cognitive and motor systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate age-related dual-task performance deficits in gait and memory.
- To examine how an age simulation suit affects young adults' dual-task abilities compared to older adults.
Main Methods:
- Compared young adults, young adults in an age suit, and older adults.
- Assessed gait (speed, cadence, stride length, double-support time) and memory under single- and dual-task conditions.
- Utilized wearable motion capture and mixed-design ANOVAs.
Main Results:
- Dual-tasking significantly impaired both gait and memory in all groups (p < .001).
- Older adults showed the poorest overall performance (p < .001).
- The age suit slowed gait speed (p < .001) and altered gait parameters, mimicking older adults, but did not affect memory.
Conclusions:
- Dual-task interference results from reduced attention and peripheral deficits, increasing fall risk in older adults.
- Age-related declines in dual-tasking involve distinct contributions from cognitive and motor systems.
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