Start Date
19-6-2025 12:00 PM
End Date
19-6-2025 1:00 PM
Abstract
Cognitive and physical decline among older adults presents a critical global challenge, with over 14% of UK seniors experiencing cognitive disorders. This decline significantly impacts daily functioning, mental health, and social well-being, necessitating innovative interventions. This study examines the effectiveness of dual-task physical exercises, which integrate cognitive challenges, in improving cognitive performance and social outcomes among older adults.
A two-year longitudinal study was conducted with 45 participants aged 65–104 across three London boroughs. The program featured one-hour, chair-based sessions twice weekly, combining balance exercises with tasks requiring memory recall and problem-solving. Data were gathered through structured observations, caregiver feedback, and assessments at baseline, 12 months, and 24 months.
Results demonstrated a 70% improvement in cognitive recall accuracy and a 60% increase in attentiveness, as reported by caregivers. Social well-being also improved, with loneliness scores decreasing by 21% and participants expressing stronger community connections. High adherence rates (90%) underscore the program's feasibility.
This intervention offers a scalable, community-based approach to reducing dementia risk while enhancing mental health and social integration in older adults. It holds promise as a vital component of aging population health strategies, fostering improved quality of life through dual-task activities.
Recommended Citation
Konstantinova, Kameliya and Kaitell, Emerick, "A Two-Year Study on Dual-Task Interventions: Advancing Elderly Care in Community Settings" (2025). International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness. 32.
https://sword.cit.ie/isapa/2025/day4/32
A Two-Year Study on Dual-Task Interventions: Advancing Elderly Care in Community Settings
Cognitive and physical decline among older adults presents a critical global challenge, with over 14% of UK seniors experiencing cognitive disorders. This decline significantly impacts daily functioning, mental health, and social well-being, necessitating innovative interventions. This study examines the effectiveness of dual-task physical exercises, which integrate cognitive challenges, in improving cognitive performance and social outcomes among older adults.
A two-year longitudinal study was conducted with 45 participants aged 65–104 across three London boroughs. The program featured one-hour, chair-based sessions twice weekly, combining balance exercises with tasks requiring memory recall and problem-solving. Data were gathered through structured observations, caregiver feedback, and assessments at baseline, 12 months, and 24 months.
Results demonstrated a 70% improvement in cognitive recall accuracy and a 60% increase in attentiveness, as reported by caregivers. Social well-being also improved, with loneliness scores decreasing by 21% and participants expressing stronger community connections. High adherence rates (90%) underscore the program's feasibility.
This intervention offers a scalable, community-based approach to reducing dementia risk while enhancing mental health and social integration in older adults. It holds promise as a vital component of aging population health strategies, fostering improved quality of life through dual-task activities.