Cognitively Enriched Walking Program

Overview

Dementia currently affects more than 47 million people worldwide, its prevalence is forecasted to triple by 2050, and it has been reported to be one of the most costly disorders in Belgium. There is good scientific evidence that the cognitive impairments associated with the development of dementia can be lessened or even reversed thanks to the plasticity of the brain (rewiring). Recent research has shown that physical activity combined with performing cognitively challenging tasks is a very potent way to induce this rewiring of the brain, which can enable people to improve their cognitive functions. Yet, so far, these studies are mainly limited to controlled laboratory conditions. The investigators developed a real-life cognitively enriched walking program, with input from experts and end-users. In this study, the investigators will examine the added value of enriching physical activity (walking) with cognitive exercises in improving cognition of older adults by conducting a six-month community-based randomized controlled trial. The investigators will also examine the longer term effectiveness in a follow-up measurement visit six months after the program. The investigators will focus on the following outcomes: cognitive functioning (i.e., objective, subjective and cognitive activity), psychosocial wellbeing (i.e., loneliness, social support, depressive symptomatology, positive wellbeing and expectations regarding aging), physical activity (i.e. both objective and subjective) and general health.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

1. male and female volunteers
2. aged 65 years and older
3. community-dwelling

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Have a neurodegenerative disorder (i.e. Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Multiple Sclerosis,…);
2. Are diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI);
3. Are diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder (e.g. schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder,…);
4. Are currently having a depressive episode;
5. Have had a serious brain injury in the past year, or before and still experience consequences (i.e. traumatic brain injury, stroke, brain haemorrhage);
6. Have a history of, or current, addiction to drugs or excessive alcohol abuse;
7. Are not able to walk approximately three kilometres in one hour (at an average walking pace);
8. Make use of a walking aid (i.e. a cane, a (rollator) walker, or a wheelchair);
9. One or both of their parents were diagnosed with juvenile dementia;
10. Know in advance that they will not be will not be present for one or more periods of longer than one month (e.g. because of a long holiday).