Effects of Tai Chi Chuan on cognition of elderly women with mild cognitive impairment

Physical activity improves the visual-spatial working memory of individuals with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

Objective

Our network meta-analysis aimed to ascertain the effect of physical activity on the visual-spatial working memory of individuals with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease as well as to propose tailored exercise interventions for each group.

Methods

Employing a frequentist approach, we performed a network meta-analysis to compare the effectiveness of different exercise interventions in improving the visual-spatial working memory of individuals with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. Subsequently, we explored the moderating variables influencing the effectiveness of the exercise interventions through a subgroup analysis.

Results

We included 34 articles involving 3,074 participants in the meta-analysis, comprised of 1,537 participants from studies on mild cognitive impairment and 1,537 participants from studies on Alzheimer's disease. The articles included exhibited an average quality score of 6.6 (score studies) and 6.75 (reaction time [RT] studies), all passing the inconsistency test (p > 0.05). In the mild cognitive impairment literature, mind-body exercise emerged as the most effective exercise intervention (SMD = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.07-1.14). In Alzheimer's disease research, aerobic exercise was identified as the optimal exercise intervention (SMD = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.06-0.71).

Conclusion

The results of the subgroup analysis suggest that the most effective approach to enhancing the visual-spatial working memory of individuals with mild cognitive impairment entails exercising at a frequency of three or more times per week for over 60 min each time and at a moderate intensity for more than 3 months. Suitable exercise options include mind-body exercise, multicomponent exercise, resistance exercise, and aerobic exercise. For individuals with Alzheimer's disease, we recommend moderately intense exercise twice per week for over 90 min per session and for a duration of 3 months or longer, with exercise options encompassing aerobic exercise and resistance exercise.

Martial Arts as a Tool for Enhancing Attention and Executive Function: Implications for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - A Literature Review

With a focus on its implications for cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), this review study seeks to investigate the possible advantages of martial arts training on attention and executive function. Common cognitive impairments seen in a variety of psychiatric diseases, such as depression and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, include difficulties in attention and executive function. Training in martial arts, which is known for its demanding physical and mental requirements, has drawn interest as a potential intervention for improving cognitive function. An overview of the most recent research on how martial arts training affects focus and executive function is given in this publication. The results demonstrate the potential of martial arts as a strategy for enhancing executive function and attention-related cognitive functions. The article also explores the implications of adding martial arts instruction to CBT therapies, arguing that doing so might be a beneficial supplementary strategy to improve treatment outcomes. With information on the possible advantages of martial arts training for attention and executive function, this review paper adds to the expanding corpus of research on non-pharmacological therapies for cognitive enhancement.

Effectiveness of Tai Chi on cognitive function among older adults with mild cognitive impairment: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of Tai Chi on cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.

METHODS

A systematic search of eight English and five Chinese electronic databases was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials of Tai Chi as the intervention. The main outcomes included executive function, episodic memory, visuospatial function, working memory, concentration, memory complaints, and global cognition. The Cochrane RoB tool was used to assess bias in the study. Meta-analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5.4. Narrative syntheses were performed if meta-analysis was inappropriate.

RESULTS

A total of eleven trials (905 participants) were included. Meta-analysis showed that Tai Chi significantly and moderately affected executive function (SMD = -1.01, 95% CI: -1.54 to -0.47, p < 0.001), episodic memory (SMD = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.24 to 0.94, p = 0.001), visuospatial function (SMD = 0.38, 95% CI: 0.15 to 0.60, p < 0.001), and global cognition (SMD = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.14 to 1.00, p = 0.01).One study showed that Tai Chi could improve verbal fluency.

CONCLUSIONS

This review reveals that Tai Chi can improve executive function, episodic memory, visuospatial function, and global cognition in older adults with mild cognitive impairment, but not working memory, concentration, or memory complaints. These findings are consist with existing reviews about the effectiveness of Tai Chi. Long-duration (> 1500 min) Tai Chi is more effective for improving global cognition. However, the findings should be interpreted with caution due to the potential risk of bias and limited sample sizes of the included studies. Future trials should examine the effectiveness of standardized Tai Chi intervention on cognitive outcomes in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.

Effects of Tai Chi combined with tDCS on cognitive function in patients with MCI: a randomized controlled trial

Background

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a critical stage of dementia. Previous reviews have suggested that physical exercise combined with non-invasive brain stimulation is more beneficial for improving cognitive function. However, no targeted studies have confirmed the effect of Tai Chi combined with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on the improvement of cognitive function in patients with MCI. Thus, this randomized trial was conducted to assess the effect of Tai Chi combined with tDCS on the cognitive performance of patients with MCI.

Methods

From April 2018 to February 2020, a randomized, single-blind clinical trial was conducted, involving 180 participants with MCI who were divided into four intervention groups: Tai Chi combined with tDCS (TCT), Tai Chi combined with sham tDCS (TCS), walking combined with tDCS (WAT), and walking combined with sham tDCS (WAS). All participants were assessed at baseline and 12 weeks for global cognitive function, memory, attention, and executive function.

Results

At baseline, there were no significant differences in age, gender, education duration, body mass index, or the Baker Depression Inventory among the four groups (P ≥ 0.05). After 12 weeks of intervention, the TCT group showed greater improvements in MOCA scores, memory quotient scores, and digit-symbol coding task reaction time compared to the TCS, WAS, and WAT groups (P < 0.05). The TCT group also had a shorter Stroop test color reaction time compared to the WAS and WAT groups (P < 0.05), a higher increase in Auditory Verbal Learning Test-immediate recall than the TCS and WAT groups (P < 0.05), a shorter visual reaction time than the TCS group (P < 0.05), and a shorter sustained attention time compared to the WAT group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Tai Chi combined with tDCS effectively improves global cognitive performance, memory, execution function, and attention in patients with MCI. These findings suggest the potential clinical use of Tai Chi combined with tDCS as a physical exercise combined with a non-invasive brain stimulation intervention to improve cognitive function in older adults with MCI.

Clinical trial registration

ChiCTR1800015629.

Mitigating effects and mechanisms of Tai Chi on mild cognitive impairment in the elderly

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a major public health concern that endangers health and decreases the quality of life of the elderly around the world. A recent clinical guideline has recommended regular exercise (twice per week) for patients with MCI as part of an overall approach to management. Tai Chi, a form of light-to-moderate-intensity mind-body exercise, is particularly suitable for seniors. This review aims to summarize epidemiological studies related to the effects of Tai Chi on symptom remission in older adults with MCI and reveal the potential mechanisms. Evidence suggested that Tai Chi can improve cognitive functions and alleviate the accompanying symptoms of MCI in the elderly potentially by activating the expression of signals in different brain regions, altering their connectivity, increasing the brain volume, and modulating brain-derived neurotropic and inflammation factors. Studies comparing various types of Tai Chi may contribute to the identification of paradigms that have appropriate intensities and difficulty and exert good effects on older people with MCI. In addition, studies are warranted to determine the frequency and duration of training that can optimize the beneficial effects of Tai Chi on MCI.

Effects of exercise interventions on executive function in old adults with mild cognitive impairment: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AIMS

To assess the effect of exercise interventions on subdomains of executive function (EF) in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

METHODS

Nine electronic databases were comprehensively searched from their inception to February 2021. Randomized controlled trials examining the effect of exercise training on EF in MCI were included.

RESULTS

Twenty-four eligible articles involving 2278 participants were identified. The results showed that exercise interventions had positive benefits on working memory, switching and inhibition in MCI. Subgroup analysis based on exercise prescriptions revealed that both aerobatic exercise and mind-body exercise had similar positive effect size on working memory. However, only mind-body exercise had significant effect on switching. Exercise training with moderate frequency (3-4 times/week) had larger effect size than low frequency (1-2 times/week) and only moderate frequency had positive benefits on switching. Both short (4-12 weeks), medium (13-24 weeks) and long (more than 24 weeks) exercise duration significantly ameliorate working memory and switching, however with short duration having slight larger effect sizes than medium and long.

CONCLUSION

Exercise significantly improves three subdomains of EF in MCI, especially mind-body exercise. Exercise training sticking to at least 4 weeks with 3-4 times a week tends to have larger effect size.

Effectiveness of Tai Chi on older adults: A systematic review of systematic reviews with re-meta-analysis

This overview study examined and synthesized the effect of Tai Chi (TC) on the physical conditions, psychological conditions, cognitive abilities, and quality of life (QoL) of older adults. This study was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 statement. Using Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Methodology Register, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, English-language systematic reviews (SRs) published within the latest decade (2010-2020) were included. SRs with meta-analysis were selected if TC was the examined intervention and older adults was the targeted population. A total of 16 SRs covering 89 original studies were included. A number of the pooled results of the included SRs were inconclusive. Taking into consideration of the new meta-analyses of this study, TC significantly improved most outcomes, including the mobility, pain level, physical function, psychological distress, depressive symptoms, anxiety, global cognitive function, mental speed and attention, learning ability, verbal fluency, executive function, and QoL of older adults. TC can be an effective intervention for older adults for improving physical and psychological conditions, cognitive abilities, and QoL. Additional high-quality studies with larger samples investigating the effectiveness of TC in older adults are warranted.

Exercise Training for Mild Cognitive Impairment Adults Older Than 60: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background:

The prevalence of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) continues to increase due to population aging. Exercise has been a supporting health strategy that may elicit beneficial effects on cognitive function and prevent dementia.

Objective:

This study aimed to examine the effects of aerobic, resistance, and multimodal exercise training on cognition in adults aged > 60 years with MCI.

Methods:

We searched the Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Embase databases and ClinicalTrials.gov (https://clinicaltrials.gov) up to November 2021, with no language restrictions. We included all published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the effect of exercise programs on cognitive function with any other active intervention or no intervention in participants with MCI aged > 60 years.

Results:

Twelve RCTs were included in this review. Meta-analysis results revealed significant improvements in resistance training on measures of executive function (p < 0.05) and attention (p < 0.05); no significant differences were observed between aerobic exercise and controls on any of the cognitive comparisons.

Conclusion:

Exercise training had a small beneficial effect on executive function and attention in older adults with MCI. Larger studies are required to examine the effects of exercise and the possible moderators.

Happiness, depression, physical activity and cognition among the middle and old-aged population in China: a conditional process analysis

Background

Happiness is one variable of subjective well-being, which has been increasingly shown to have protective effects on health. Although the association between happiness and cognition has been established, the mechanism by which happiness leads to cognition remains unclear. Since happiness, depression, and physical activity may all be related to cognition, and happiness is related to depression and physical activity, this study explored the effect of depression and physical activity on the relationship between happiness and cognition among middle and old-aged individuals in China.

Methods

Data on 14,344 participants above 45 years of age were obtained from the 2018 China Family Panel Studies survey. A multiple linear regression analysis was performed to identify the correlation factors of cognition. The conditional process analysis was used to assess the mediatory effect of depression and physical activity on the relationship between happiness and cognition.

Results

Residence, age, sex, income level, social status, smoking, napping, reading, education, exercise times, satisfaction, happiness, and depression had associations with cognition. When other variables were held constant, cognition score increased by 0.029 standard deviation(SD) for every 1 SD increased in happiness. Mediation analysis showed that happiness had a significant positive total effect on cognition. The direct effect of happiness was significant and accounted for 57.86% of the total effect. The mediatory effect of depression (path of happiness→depression→cognition) accounted for 38.31% of the total effect, whereas that of physical activity (path of happiness→exercise times→cognition) accounted for 3.02% of the total effect.

Conclusion

Happiness has a positive correlation with cognitive function, and depression and physical activity play mediatory roles in this association. Effective interventions to improve happiness levels of middle and old-aged population will not only improve their subjective well-being but also improve their cognitive function, which carries great potential for reducing public health burdens related to cognitive aging.

Effect of Tai Chi on Cognitive Function among Older Adults with Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

Cognitive decline occurs in all persons during the aging process and drugs can only alleviate symptoms and are expensive. Some researches demonstrated that Tai Chi had potential in preventing cognitive decline while others' results showed Tai Chi had no influence on cognitive impairment. Therefore, we conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the efficacy and safety of cognitive impairment patients practicing Tai Chi.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was carried out in multiple databases, including PubMed, Cochrane, MEDLINE (Ovid), Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, PsycInfo (Ovid), CKNI, Wan Fang, VIP, SinoMed, and ClinicalTrails, from their inception to 1 July 2020 to collect randomized controlled trials about practicing Tai Chi for patients with cognitive impairment. Primary outcomes included changes of cognitive function and secondary outcomes included changes of memory functions. Data were extracted by two independent individuals and Cochrane Risk of Bias tool version 2.0 was applied for the included studies. Systematic review and meta-analysis were performed by RevMan 5.3 software.

Results

The results included 827 cases in 9 studies, of which 375 were in the experimental group and 452 were in the control group. Meta-analysis showed that Mini-Mental State Examination WMD = 1.52, 95% CI [0.90, 2.14]; Montreal Cognitive Assessment WMD = 3.5, 95% CI [0.76, 6.24]; Clinical Dementia Rating WMD = −0.55, 95% CI [−0.80, −0.29]; logical memory delayed recall WMD = 1.1, 95% CI [0.04, 2.16]; digit span forward WMD = 0.53, 95% CI [−0.65, 1.71]; and digit span backward WMD = −0.1, 95% CI [−0.38, 0.19]. No adverse events were reported in the included articles.

Conclusion

There is limited evidence to support that practicing Tai Chi is effective for older adults with cognitive impairment. Tai Chi seems to be a safe exercise, which can bring better changes in cognitive function score.

Evaluating subjective cognitive decline: a systematic review of tools available for evaluating cognitive complaints in Portuguese

BACKGROUND

Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) is a perception that is not objectively measured in screening tests. Although many tools are available for evaluating SCD, no single gold standard is available for classifying individuals as presenting SCD, in the Portuguese-speaking population. The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature for tools used to evaluate SCD in the Portuguese-speaking population.

METHODS

Four databases (Web of Science, SciELO, LILACS and MEDLINE) were primarily utilized in this study (Phase 1). Subsequently, we conducted a manual search of the literature (Phase 2). We then retrieved tools for critical evaluation (Phase 3). Studies that matched the inclusion criteria were analyzed. We summarized the features of each tool in terms of the number of questions, scoring system, benefits and deficiencies, translation and validity.

RESULTS

A total of 30 studies utilizing four questionnaires and seven different single questions were found. The tools retrieved were the Memory Assessment Questionnaire (MAC-Q; 12/30 studies), single-question methods (7/30 studies), Subjective Memory Complaint Scale (SMC scale; 5/30 studies), Prospective and Retrospective Memory Questionnaire (PRMQ; 3/30 studies) and Memory Complaint Scale (MCS; 3/30 studies). Only two were formally translated and validated for the Portuguese speaking population (PRMQ and MCS).

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, SCD is still underinvestigated in Portuguese-speaking countries. The MAC-Q was the most commonly used tool in Portuguese, despite its lack of formal translation and validation for the Portuguese-speaking population. Further studies are required in order to develop and validate a screening tool that includes questions for detecting SCD-plus features and affective symptoms, so as to improve its predictive value.

Efficacy of Tai Chi-Style Multi-Component Exercise on Frontal-Related Cognition and Physical Health in Elderly With Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment

Early prevention from accelerated neurocognitive declines with advanced aging and the delay of the onset of dementia have became paramount for the achievement of active aging. The present study examined whether the proposed non-pharmaceutical, multi-component exercise training which combined Tai-Chi exercise, Aerobic fitness, and thera-band therapy protects against age-related neurocognitive and physical deterioration in the older participants with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI). Participants with aMCI in the quasi-experimental design were assigned to the multi-component exercise group or care control group. Evaluations of neuropsychological function and functional fitness were performed before and after 12-weeks intervention, and after 24-weeks follow-up. Our results showed that the multi-component intervention significantly improved various domains of neurocognitive function, particularly in memory- and frontal-related cognition, and better performance on functional fitness, including muscle strength, cardiopulmonary endurance, and agility. Furthermore, such beneficial effects were preserved after 24 weeks. The findings provide supportive evidence that non-pharmaceutically multi-component intervention with Tai-Chi style practice as a core exercise may protect against age-related neurocognitive and physical deficits and lay the path on developing age-friendly intervention programs to delay, or even reverse, the progression of MCI to dementia.

Dose-Response Association of Tai Chi and Cognition among Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Previous studies indicated that Tai Chi might be an effective way to improve or prevent cognitive impairments in older populations. However, existing research does not provide clear recommendations about the optimal dose of Tai Chi practice, which is the most effective in improving cognitive function in older adults. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the dose-response relationship between Tai Chi and cognition in community-dwelling older adults. A total of 16 studies with 1121 subjects were included in this study. Meta-regression analyses of Tai Chi duration (Tai Chi session duration, Tai Chi practice duration per week, study duration, and Tai Chi practice duration for the entire study) on the study effect size (ES) were performed to examine the dose-response association of Tai Chi and cognition. The results showed that there was a positive effect of Tai Chi on cognitive function, but there were no statistically significant dose duration effects on cognition. The findings suggest that Tai Chi has beneficial effects on cognitive function, but a longer duration was not associated with larger effects. In order to establish evidence-based clinical interventions using Tai Chi, future research should clearly demonstrate intervention protocol, particularly the style and intensity of Tai Chi.

Clinical Evidence of Tai Chi Exercise Prescriptions: A Systematic Review

Objectives

This systematic review aims to summarize the existing literature on Tai Chi randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and recommend Tai Chi exercise prescriptions for different diseases and populations.

Methods

A systematic search for Tai Chi RCTs was conducted in five electronic databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, EBSCO, and Web of Science) from their inception to December 2019. SPSS 20.0 software and Microsoft Excel 2019 were used to analyze the data, and the risk of bias tool in the RevMan 5.3.5 software was used to evaluate the methodological quality of RCTs.

Results

A total of 139 articles were identified, including diseased populations (95, 68.3%) and healthy populations (44, 31.7%). The diseased populations included the following 10 disease types: musculoskeletal system or connective tissue diseases (34.7%), circulatory system diseases (23.2%), mental and behavioral disorders (12.6%), nervous system diseases (11.6%), respiratory system diseases (6.3%), endocrine, nutritional or metabolic diseases (5.3%), neoplasms (3.2%), injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes (1.1%), genitourinary system diseases (1.1%), and diseases of the eye and adnexa (1.1%). Tai Chi exercise prescription was generally classified as moderate intensity. The most commonly applied Tai Chi style was Yang style (92, 66.2%), and the most frequently specified Tai Chi form was simplified 24-form Tai Chi (43, 30.9%). 12 weeks and 24 weeks, 2-3 times a week, and 60 min each time was the most commonly used cycle, frequency, and time of exercise in Tai Chi exercise prescriptions.

Conclusions

We recommend the more commonly used Tai Chi exercise prescriptions for different diseases and populations based on clinical evidence of Tai Chi. Further clinical research on Tai Chi should be combined with principles of exercise prescription to conduct large-sample epidemiological studies and long-term prospective follow-up studies to provide more substantive clinical evidence for Tai Chi exercise prescriptions.

Benefits of exercise training on cerebrovascular and cognitive function in ageing

Derangements in cerebrovascular structure and function can impair cognitive performance throughout ageing and in cardiometabolic disease states, thus increasing dementia risk. Modifiable lifestyle factors that cause a decline in cardiometabolic health, such as physical inactivity, exacerbate these changes beyond those that are associated with normal ageing. The purpose of this review was to examine cerebrovascular, cognitive and neuroanatomical adaptations to ageing and the potential benefits of exercise training on these outcomes in adults 50 years or older. We systematically searched for cross-sectional or intervention studies that included exercise (aerobic, resistance or multimodal) and its effect on cerebrovascular function, cognition and neuroanatomical adaptations in this age demographic. The included studies were tabulated and described narratively. Aerobic exercise training was the predominant focus of the studies identified; there were limited studies exploring the effects of resistance exercise training and multimodal training on cerebrovascular function and cognition. Collectively, the evidence indicated that exercise can improve cerebrovascular function, cognition and neuroplasticity through areas of the brain associated with executive function and memory in adults 50 years or older, irrespective of their health status. However, more research is required to ascertain the mechanisms of action.

A walk on water: comparing the influence of Ai Chi and Tai Chi on fall risk and verbal working memory in ageing people with intellectual disabilities - a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Aquatic motor intervention has been found to be effective in reducing falls and improving verbal working memory among the general population. However, effects among older adults with intellectual disabilities (ID) have never been explored. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of aquatic motor intervention on fall risk and verbal working memory among older adults with ID.

METHODS

Forty-one older adults with mild to moderate ID (age: 50-66 years) were randomly assigned to 14 weeks of aquatic motor intervention (Ai Chi: N = 19) or identical on-land motor intervention (Tai Chi: N = 22). Fall risk, measured with the Tinetti balance assessment tool (TBAT), and verbal working memory, measured with the digit span forward test, were assessed pre-intervention, after 7 weeks of intervention and post-intervention.

RESULTS

Study results indicate positive effects of both aquatic and on-land motor intervention on TBAT fall risk score, while the aquatic motor intervention group improved TBAT fall risk score quicker as compared with the on-land motor intervention group. Moreover, the lower the pre-intervention TBAT score was, the higher the improvement. In addition, study findings support the positive effects of aquatic motor intervention on verbal working memory ability as measured with the digit span forward test.

CONCLUSIONS

Motor intervention, and particularly in an aquatic environment, can potentially reduce fall risk. Aquatic motor intervention may help to improve verbal working memory among older adults with ID.

The effectiveness of Tai Chi for short-term cognitive function improvement in the early stages of dementia in the elderly: a systematic literature review

Purpose: This systematic review examines intervention studies using Tai Chi in the early stages of dementia to determine the effectiveness of Tai Chi for the short-term improvement of cognitive functions for elderly persons with the disease. Methods: A keyword search was done in PubMed/MEDLINE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE), and Cochrane Library databases using keywords such as Tai Chi, Dementia*, and cognition. A secondary search strategy consisting of a manual search in the reference lists of selected articles was also used. Results: A total of nine studies were reviewed including six randomized controlled trials, two non-randomized controlled trials, and one non-randomized prospective study. The studies suggest Tai Chi has impacts on global cognitive functions, visuospatial skills, semantic memory, verbal learning/memory, and self-perception of memory. The effects of Tai Chi on overall cognition for people with mild cognitive impairment are comparable to those in control groups which engaged in exercise. Conclusion: The studies reviewed affirm the potential of Tai Chi to improve short-term cognitive function in the elderly at the onset of dementia.

Impact of mind-body interventions in older adults with mild cognitive impairment: a systematic review

ABSTRACTBackground:Mind-body interventions have been associated with a range of positive outcomes in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The aim of the present study was to review the impact of different non-pharmacological programs based on mind-body intervention for older adults with MCI.

METHODS

A comprehensive search method as required by the Cochrane Collaboration has been performed through the following databases: Google Scholar, Science Direct, PubMed, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINHAL, Cochrane, Ebsco. We included the studies that evaluated the impact of mind-body interventions such as mindfulness or meditation, yoga, Tai Chi and Qigong on cognitive function and everyday functionality of non-hospitalized adults aged 55 years or over with MCI.

RESULTS

Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Results indicated that mind-body interventions improved cognitive function, everyday activities functioning, and mindfulness, as well as resulting in a moderate reduction in fall risk, depression and stress and lower risk of dementia at one year.

CONCLUSION

Several mind-body interventions focused broadly on mindfulness, yoga and Tai Chi training have been studied. This review shows that mind-body interventions improved cognitive function and everyday activities functioning, memory, resilience and mindfulness in older adults with MCI. However, the conclusions faced limitations, such as small sample size, heterogeneity of outcome measures, lack of an active control group and absence of long-term follow up. Further high-quality evidence is needed in order to determine whether mind-body interventions are cost-effective for improving cognitive decline in older adults with MCI and for delaying the rapid progression from MCI to Alzheimer or other types of dementia.

The Beneficial Effects of Mind-Body Exercises for People With Mild Cognitive Impairment: a Systematic Review With Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To objectively evaluate the most common forms of mind-body exercise (MBE) (tai chi, yoga, qigong) on cognitive function among people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

DATA SOURCES

We searched 6 electronic databases (Scopus, PubMed, PsycINFO, WanFang, Web of Science, CNKI) from inception until September 2018.

STUDY SELECTION

Nine randomized controlled trials and 3 nonrandomized controlled trials were included for meta-analysis.

DATA EXTRACTION

Two researchers independently performed the literature searches, study selection, data extraction, and methodological quality assessment using the revised Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale.

DATA SYNTHESIS

The pooled effect size (standardized mean difference [SMD]) was calculated while random-effect model was selected. Overall results of the meta-analysis (N=1298 people with MCI) indicated that MBE significantly improved attention (SMD=0.39, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.07-0.71, P=.02, I²=31.6%, n=245), short-term memory (SMD=0.74, 95% CI 0.57-0.90, P<.001, I²=0%, n=861), executive function (SMD=-0.42, 95% CI -0.63 to -0.21, P<.001, I²=38.54%, n=701), visual-spatial/executive function (SMD=0.35, 95% CI 0.07-0.64, P<.05, I²=0%, n=285), and global cognitive function (SMD=0.36, 95% CI 0.2-0.52, P<.001, I²=15.12%, n=902). However, the significant positive effect on cognitive processing speed was not observed following MBE interventions (SMD=0.31, 95% CI -0.01 to 0.63, P=.054, I²=28.66%, n=233).

CONCLUSIONS

Study findings of this meta-analysis suggest that MBE have the potential to improve various cognitive functions in people with MCI.

Different modulation effects of Tai Chi Chuan and Baduanjin on resting-state functional connectivity of the default mode network in older adults

The default mode network (DMN) plays an important role in age-related cognitive decline. This study aims to explore the modulation effect of two mind-body interventions (Tai Chi Chuan and Baduanjin) on DMN in elderly individuals. Participants between 50 and 70 years old were recruited and randomized into a Tai Chi Chuan, Baduanjin or control group. The Wechsler Memory Scale-Chinese Revision and resting-state fMRI scans were administered at baseline and following 12 weeks of exercise. Seed-based resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) was calculated. We found that (i) compared to the Baduanjin group, Tai Chi Chuan was significantly associated with increased rsFC between the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and right putamen/caudate and (ii) compared to the control group, Tai Chi Chuan increased posterior cingulate cortex rsFC with the right putamen/caudate, while Baduanjin decreased rsFC between the mPFC and orbital prefrontal gyrus/putamen. Baseline mPFC rsFC with orbital prefrontal gyrus was negatively correlated with visual reproduction subscore. These results suggest that both Tai Chi Chuan and Baduanjin can modulate the DMN, but through different pathways. Elucidating the mechanisms underlying different mind-body interventions may shed light on the development of new methods to prevent age-related diseases as well as other disorders associated with disrupted DMN.

Effects of Mind-Body Exercises on Cognitive Function in Older Adults: A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Mind-body exercise has positive effects on cognitive performance, according to clinical observation and experts' recommendations. However, its potential benefits for the cognitive function of aging adults are uncertain and still lack systematic estimations. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the overall efficacy and effectiveness of mind-body exercises for cognitive performance in aging individuals with or without cognitive impairment.

DESIGN

A systematic review and meta-analysis.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

We searched related trials through June 2018 from four databases: Medline, Embase, PsycINFO (all via Ovid), and the Cochrane Library/Central Register of Controlled Trials.

MEASUREMENTS

Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. A meta-analysis of comparative effects was performed using Review Manager v.5.3 software, and publication bias was examined using Egger's test.

RESULTS

A total of 32 randomized controlled trials with 3624 participants were ultimately included in this meta-analysis. The results revealed that mind-body exercises as a whole had benefits in improving global cognition compared with that of the control group (mean difference [MD] = 0.92; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.33-1.51; p = .002) and were more effective than control interventions in promoting cognitive flexibility (MD = -8.80; 95% CI = -15.22 to -2.38; p = .007), working memory (MD = 0.32; 95% CI = 0.01-0.64; p = .05), verbal fluency (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.27; 95% CI = 0.09-0.45; p = .003), and learning (SMD = 0.24; 95% CI = 0.10-0.39; p = .001) on cognitively intact or impaired older adults. In dose-subgroup analysis, only moderate exercise intensity (60-120 min per week) significantly increased global cognition scores compared with those of the control group (MD = 1.15; 95% CI = 0.34-1.97; p = .006).

CONCLUSION

Mind-body exercises, especially tai chi and dance mind-body exercise, are beneficial for improving global cognition, cognitive flexibility, working memory, verbal fluency, and learning in cognitively intact or impaired older adults. Moderate intensity is recommended as the optimal dose for older adults. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:749-758, 2019.

The association between Tai Chi exercise and safe driving performance among older adults: An observational study

BACKGROUND

Age-related cognitive and physical decline can impair safe driving performance. Tai Chi exercise benefits cognitive and physical function and may influence safe driving performance in older adults. The primary aim of this observational study was to compare cognitive processes and physical function related to safe driving performance among older adult Tai Chi practitioners to normative reference values. Secondary aims were to examine relationships between Tai Chi exercise habits, cognitive processes, and physical function related to safe driving performance and to explore potential predictors of safe driving performance.

METHODS

The DrivingHealth Inventory, the Driving Scenes Test, other driving-related cognitive and physical measures, and self-reported measures including the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) and the Vitality Plus Scale (VPS) were collected from current Tai Chi practitioners (n = 58; age 72.9 ± 5.9 years, mean ± SD) with median >3 years Tai Chi practice.

RESULTS

Compared to normative reference values, participants performed better on numerous cognitive measures including the Driving Scenes Test (p < 0.001, d = 1.63), maze navigation (p = 0.017, d = 0.27), the Useful Field of View Test (p < 0.001, r = 0.15), and on physical measures including the Rapid Walk Test (p < 0.001, r = 0.20), and the Right Foot Tapping Test, (p < 0.001, r = 0.35). Participants scored higher than normative reference values on MAAS and VPS (p < 0.001, d = 0.75; p = 0.002, d = 0.38, respectively). Statistically significant correlations were found between several study measures. The digit span backward test was the strongest predictor of safe driving performance (β = 0.34, p = 0.009).

CONCLUSION

Tai Chi exercise has the potential to impact cognitive processes and physical function related to safe driving performance. Further study using randomized controlled trials, structured Tai Chi exercise doses, and driving simulator or on-road driving performance as outcome measures are warranted.

Physical activity and cognitive function in individuals over 60 years of age: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

It is unclear whether physical activity in later life is beneficial for maintenance of cognitive function. We performed a systematic review examining the effects of exercise on cognitive function in older individuals, and present possible mechanisms whereby physical activity may improve cognition.

METHODS

Sources consisted of PubMed, Medline, CINAHL, the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, and the University of Washington, School of Medicine Library Database, with a search conducted on August 15, 2012 for publications limited to the English language starting January 1, 2000. Randomized controlled trials including at least 30 participants and lasting at least 6 months, and all observational studies including a minimum of 100 participants for one year, were evaluated. All subjects included were at least 60 years of age.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven studies met the inclusion criteria. Twenty-six studies reported a positive correlation between physical activity and maintenance or enhancement of cognitive function. Five studies reported a dose-response relationship between physical activity and cognition. One study showed a nonsignificant correlation.

CONCLUSION

The preponderance of evidence suggests that physical activity is beneficial for cognitive function in the elderly. However, the majority of the evidence is of medium quality with a moderate risk of bias. Larger randomized controlled trials are needed to clarify the association between exercise and cognitive function and to determine which types of exercise have the greatest benefit on specific cognitive domains. Despite these caveats, the current evidence suggests that physical activity may help to improve cognitive function and, consequently, delay the progression of cognitive impairment in the elderly.

Effects of Tai Chi on cognitive function in community-dwelling older adults: a review

As the population of the United States ages, activities to maintain or improve cognitive function will become increasingly important to preserve functional ability, independence and health-related quality of life. This article is a review of recent research on Tai Chi and cognitive function in community-dwelling older adults. Of the 12 studies reviewed, 10 reported improvement in measures of executive function, language, learning, and/or memory. Several design features make comparisons across studies challenging. As a moderate-intensity, low-impact form of exercise, Tai Chi is appropriate for older adults and seems to offer positive cognitive benefits. Recommendations for future research are provided.