This study aimed to investigate if NeuroTracker training could positively influence a number of assessments known to be reliable indicators of fall-risk in older adults.

What Was Studied

25 elderly residents (av. 80 years old) of a day care facility were divided into active and control groups. The active group completed a NeuroTracker (3D-MOT) training intervention over 5 weeks, along with a batter of pre and post training assessments relevant to fall-risk. The control group did no NeuroTracker training, but also completed all the pre and post assessments. These included the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), Trail Making Test A (TMT-A), 5 meter walking ability, dynamic balance ability, the Timed Up and Go test (TUG), and the Function Reach Test (FRT).

What Was Found

Overall the participants improved significantly on NeuroTracker scores (+32%), demonstrating a clear learning capacity for this task in old age. The MMSE (a screening test) showed no significant changes for both groups. The NeuroTracker group experienced significant or large post-test improvements on TMT-A, 5 meter walking time, TUG and FRT. In contrast, controls experienced a moderate or significant decline in TMT-A, TUG and FRT, but a significant improvement in walking time.

Takeaways

Overall the researchers conclude that NeuroTracker training offers an effective intervention for preventing falls in an elderly community dwelling.

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Reference: Yasutomo Shirono & Morihiro Tsujishita. ‘Examination of the Training Effect of the Three Dimensional Multiple Object Tracking Task on Community Dwelling Elderly’ Physiotherapy Science, Vol. 31(5) 729-732, 2016.

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