Overview
The goal of this interventional clinical trial is to investigate the effects of breathing exercises added to balance training on cognitive function in individuals aged 65 years and older.
The main questions it aims to answer are:
Do breathing exercises affect cognition? Do different breathing exercises affect cognition in different ways?
Researchers will administer two different breathing protocols and evaluate cognition before and after each protocol.
Participants will take part in an 8-week program consisting of sessions that include 30 minutes of balance-based exercises and 15 minutes of breathing exercises. Sessions will be held twice weekly under the supervision of a physical therapist.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Adults aged 65 years and older
- Able to walk independently
- Suitable for light to moderate physical activity
- Willing and able to attend 2 sessions per week for 8 weeks
Exclusion Criteria:
- Underwent surgery within the last 6 months
- Currently participating in another structured rehabilitation program
- Neurological disorders that significantly restrict mobility (e.g., Parkinson's disease, stroke)
