The Effects of a Pilates-Based Cognicise Program on Cognitive Ability and Physical Fitness in Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Pilot Study

Objective: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is associated with reduced cognitive function and age-related decline in physical fitness, which increases dementia risk. Dual-task training, combining motor and cognitive tasks shows promise for improving functional capacity in older adults. This pilot study examined the effects of a Pilates-based cognicise program on cognition and physical fitness in older adults with MCI. Design: A Pilot study. Methods: Eleven community-dwelling older adults with MCI froma local dementia care center completed a 10-week Pilates-based cognicise intervention. Each session consisted of 60 minutes of Pilates exercise performed concurrently with cognitive tasks. The Montreal cognitive assessment-Koreanversion (MoCA-K) assessed cognitive function, and senior fitness test evaluated physical fitness. Pre- and post-intervention scores were compared to determine the effects of the program. Results: MoCA-K scores significantly increased after the intervention (from 11.64 to 14.18, p<0.05). Significant improvements were also found in lower-body strength as measured by the 30-second chair stand test (from 9.36 to 11.87 repetitions, p<0.05), and in upper-body strength as measured by the arm curl test (from 12.72 to 14.84 repetitions, p<0.05). 2-minute step test, 8-foot up-and-go, chair sit-and-reach, and back scratch test showed no significant changes. Conclusions: A Pilates-based cognicise program improved cognitive function and muscular strength in older adults with MCI. Dual-task Pilates exercise may be a feasible intervention for enhancing brain health and functional capacity in this population, warranting larger trials.