Korean J Geriatr Gerontol.  2020 Dec;21(2):47-53. 10.15656/kjcg.2020.21.2.47.

Effective Approach to Improving Cognitive Function in the Elderly: Focused on Cognitive-exercise Combination Program

• Park SW
• Kim JW

• KMID: 2566428
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.15656/kjcg.2020.21.2.47

Abstract

Exercise is a method that can be used to improve cognitive functions in the elderly since exercise is known to increase blood flow to the brain which positively changes the electrical signals of the brain cortex. Exercise is also known to improve physical function. It has been found that exercise can synergistically interact with various types of cognitive interventions. This has led to an increased interest in a dual-task intervention that combines cognitive tasks and exercise. Although the concept of a dual-task intervention has gained interest, most studies have only applied basic tasks for the purpose of theoretical establishment. In other words, there is a lack of cognitive-exercise combined programs that can be applied in a clinical setting. Therefore, the we examined studies that dealt with the effectiveness and basic theories of cognitive-exercise dual-task interventions for the elderly and patients with cognitive impairments. This study aimed to lay the foundation for the development of a program that could be safely and effectively applied in a clinical setting.

Keyword

Cognition; Dual-task intervention; Elderly; Exercise