Alpha-Band EEG Modulation as a Potential Aged-Related Biomarker for Biofeedback-Driven Motor-Cognitive Adaptability

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Science
• Gerontology

Background:

• Age-related decline impacts motor-cognitive function and neural adaptability.
• Dual-task paradigms assess cognitive-motor interactions but can be challenging for older adults with balance issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate neural modulation using electroencephalography (EEG) during a seated foot-tapping paradigm.
• To compare neural responses under single-task, dual-task, and auditory biofeedback conditions between younger and older adults.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-six healthy participants (18 young, 18 old) performed single-task (ST), dual-task (DT), and dual-task with auditory biofeedback (DT+) foot-tapping.
• EEG spectral power (alpha, beta, high beta bands) and an aggregate modulation index (AMI) were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Younger adults exhibited significantly greater neural modulation than older adults (p = 0.007).
• Younger adults showed decreased alpha activity in DT+ vs. DT (p < 0.02).
• Older adults displayed increased high beta activity from ST to DT (p < 0.001) with no significant alpha modulation.

Conclusions:

• Alpha-band EEG activity differentiates age-related neural adaptability during auditory feedback.
• Alpha-band modulation shows potential as a biomarker for motor-cognitive adaptability across the lifespan.