Feasibility of multicomponent exercise training with beat-accentuated music among community-dwelling older adults with mild-to-moderate cognitive decline

ObjectivesThis study explored the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a music-based, multicomponent exercise intervention among community-dwelling older adults with mild-to-moderate cognitive impairment. Methods13 older adults aged 85{+/-}9 years with mild-to-moderate cognitive impairment completed multicomponent exercise training for 20 weeks at an independent living facility. Participants received aerobic, resistance, and balance training paired with beat-accentuated music stimulation (BMS). Participants adherence to the training was tracked down and their cognitive and physical functioning and quality of life were assessed at pre- and post-test. Results13 participants attended an average of 4.6 days/week over 20 weeks and reported high satisfaction with the intervention (90.6%). Participants showed significant improvement in global cognition, cognitive processing speed, and walking endurance/aerobic fitness at post-test. ConclusionsThese findings support the feasibility of music-based, multicomponent exercise training for older adults in an independent living facility and set the stage for future studies to test the efficacy of music on physical activity and ensuing health outcomes. Clinical ImplicationsMusic-based, multicomponent exercise training can be beneficial for community-dwelling older adults with mild-to-moderate cognitive decline. BMS can be combined with exercise training to manipulate exercise tempo and may provide a source of motivation to help older adults adhere to exercise.