Multimodal Cognitive Training Effects on Tablet-based Dual-Task Performance and Walking-while-Talking among Middle-aged Adults

Objective: This study investigated the impact of a comprehensive cognitive training program on dual-task performance (DTP) in low -active but generally healthy middle-aged adults, with DTP serving as an indicator of aging and neurocognitive decline.Methods: A total of 233 mid-life adults (average age = 46.73, 65.7% females) were randomly assigned to either the Games group (stationary dual-task training plus exergaming) or the Videos group (attention-control condition involving educational YouTube videos). The interventions were delivered in 10 sessions totaling 20 hours, both in-lab and at home. Performance improvement was assessed using a tablet-based dual-task and Walking-while-talking (WWT) test at baseline, month one post-intervention, and at a six-month follow-up.Results: The Games group demonstrated a larger improvement in tablet-based dual-task response times compared to the Videos group, with a reduction in response times by 26 ms versus an increase by 74 ms. A minor improvement in dual-task cost of 18 ms was also observed in a longitudinal analysis from baseline to the 6-month follow-up. Regarding WWT performance, a path model indicated that the Games group showed marked improvement in dual-task speed (β=.15; R2=.09; M diff=0.14 m/s) and error reduction (β=.20, R2=.07; M diff=1.82), while single-task measures remained unchanged.Discussion: The findings underscore the efficacy of cognitive interventions, like exergaming and stationary dual-tasks, in boosting DTP. The Games group demonstrated notable improvements in both tablet-based and WWT tasks, indicating dual-task specificity of our training. Such training could help counter neurocognitive decline and promote healthier aging. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and examine long-term impacts.