A comparison of physical exercise and cognitive training interventions to improve determinants of functional mobility in healthy older adults

Mobility is a complex but crucial clinical outcome in older adults. Past observational studies have highlighted that cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), energy cost of walking (ECW), and cognitive switching abilities are associated with mobility performance, making these key determinants intervention targets to enhance The objective this study was compare, the same design, impact three training methods - each known improve either CRF, ECW, or on healthy Seventy-eight participants (69.28 ± 4.85yo) were randomly assigned one twelve-week interventions: Aerobic Exercise (AE; n = 26), Gross Motor Abilities (GMA; 27), Cognitive (COG; 25) training. Each designed (CRF, switching). Primary outcomes (usual gait speed, TUG performance) measured before after intervention. Repeated-measures ANOVAs showed time effect for performance (F(1,75) 14.92, p < .001): all groups equally improved (?TUGpost-pre, seconds, 95% CI: AE ?0.44 [?0.81 ?0.08]; GMA ?0.60 [?1.10 ?0.10]; COG ?0.33 [?0.71 0.05]). No significant between group differences observed. CRF only (Hedges' G 0.27, small effect), ECW most ?0.78, moderate effect) -1.93, large respectively. Smaller improvements observed following trainings G: -0.39, -0.36, both effects) as well ?0.42, -0.21, effects). This provides further support notion multiple interventional approaches (aerobic, gross motor exercise, training) can be employed functional adults, giving them, professionals, more options promote ageing.