Executive functioning is critical for maintaining physical performance in older adults, yet its impact on brain activity during postural control, particularly under dual-task conditions, remains underexplored. This study examined the relationship between executive dysfunction and brain activity during postural control in older adults under both normal and dual-task conditions. We hypothesized that older adults with impaired executive functioning would demonstrate decreased alpha power during dual-task standing, as alpha power is linked to executive function. Eighteen participants (age: 73.2 ± 4.5, 11 female) without executive dysfunction and six participants (age: 82.5 ± 7.3, 5 female) with executive dysfunction were recruited. Executive dysfunction was defined by a TMT B completion time exceeding 90 seconds. Electroencephalogram (EEG) assessed brain activity, while APDM inertial sensors recorded postural sway metrics during quiet and dual-task standing conditions. The Timed Up and Go (TUG) test assessed mobility. An Independent t-test compared EEG alpha power, mobility, and postural sway outcomes between these groups. The results indicated that individuals with executive dysfunction had significantly lower alpha power while standing quietly (p=0.01) and dual-task standing (p=0.02). Those with executive dysfunction took longer to complete the TUG test (p < 0.001) and had greater postural sway area during quiet standing (p < 0.001) and dual-task standing (p = 0.03). These findings suggest that executive dysfunction in older adults is associated with decreased alpha power and impaired postural control. Further research is needed to investigate the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying these observed relationships.
The Impact of Executive Dysfunction on Brain Activity During Postural Control in Older Adults
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