A facility-based "brain gym": feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of a long-duration, low-frequency dual-task and exergaming intervention in older adults.

Publication Title

Front Psychol

Authors

• Ryan M. Glatt, Pacific Neuroscience Institute and Foundation, Santa Monica, CA, United States.Follow
• John A Bettencourt
• Dawn Kirk
• Sue Paul
• Karen J Miller, Pacific Neuroscience Institute and Foundation, Santa Monica, CA, United States.Follow
• Prabha Siddarth, Pacific Neuroscience Institute and Foundation, Santa Monica, CA, United States.Follow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2026

Keywords

cognition; cognitive-motor training; dual-task training; exercise; california; santa monica; pni exergaming; older adults; rehabilitation; serious games.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Exercise programs that combine cognitive and physical challenges may support cognition in aging populations. This single-arm feasibility study evaluated the implementation and acceptability of a 12-month, facility-based dual-task training (DTT) and exergame (EXG) exercise program in older adults residing in a senior living community.

METHODS: Secondary exploratory analyses examined preliminary effectiveness on cognitive outcomes. Seventy-five residents aged 65 years and older participated in a long-duration, low-frequency program combining DTT and EXG interventions in a senior living community, completing 8-24 sessions over a 12-month period. Cognitive outcomes were assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), CNS Vital Signs (CNSVS), and a subjective memory questionnaire. Within-subject changes were examined using non-parametric tests and effect sizes.

RESULTS: Among the 75 participants enrolled in the program (mean age = 82.1 years; SD = 5.6, 61% female), feasibility endpoints were met, with 75% adherence to ≥16 sessions and no adverse events were reported. Exploratory analyses demonstrated statistically significant improvements in global cognition (MoCA;

DISCUSSION: These findings suggest that a long-duration, low-frequency dual-task and exergame-enhanced program can be feasible and safe in a senior living setting and demonstrates preliminary evidence of cognitive benefit. Findings should be interpreted cautiously, given the single-arm design and the absence of a control group.

Area of Special Interest

Neurosciences (Brain & Spine)

Area of Special Interest

Mental Health

Specialty/Research Institute

Neurosciences

Specialty/Research Institute

Behavioral Health

DOI

10.3389/fpsyg.2026.1767634