Article

The mechanisms linking cognition, balance function, and fall risk among
older adults are not fully understood. An evaluation of the effect of cognition
on balance tests commonly used in clinical practice to assess community-dwelling
older adults could enhance the identification of at-risk individuals. The study
aimed to determine (1) the association between cognition and clinical tests of
balance and (2) the relationship between executive function (EF) and balance
under single- and dual-task testing. Methods: Participants (24 women, mean age of
76.18 [SD 16.45] years) completed six clinical balance tests, four cognitive
tests, and two measures of physical function. Results: Poor balance function was
associated with poor performance on cognitive testing of EF. In addition, the
association with EF was strongest under the dual-task timed up-and-go (TUG) test
and the Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale. Measures of global cognition were
associated only with the dual-task performance of the TUG. Postural sway measured
with the Standing Balance Test, under single- or dual-task test conditions, was
not associated with cognition. Conclusions: Decreased EF was associated with
worse performance on functional measures of balance. The relationship between EF
and balance was more pronounced with dual-task testing using a complex cognitive
task combined with the TUG.

Langue : ANGLAIS