Impact of Respiratory Muscle Training on Cognition in Older Adults

The increase in chronic diseases associated with aging leads to various physical limitations in older adults, negatively impacting fall risk, hospitalization rates, and overall mortality. While Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) is frequently utilized in rehabilitation programs due to its low cost and ease of use to enhance respiratory muscle strength, balance, and functional capacity, its potential effects on cognitive function remain unexamined. The primary objective of this pilot randomized controlled trial is to investigate the effect of an 8-week Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) program on cognitive function in older adults. A secondary objective is to examine the relationship between cardiovascular risk factors and respiratory muscle strength in this population. Researchers hypothesize that an 8-week IMT intervention will have a significant effect on cognitive function in older adults compared to a control group. To test this hypothesis, a total of 24 eligible older adults will be randomly assigned to either perform daily breathing exercises using an external device for 8 weeks or maintain their routine daily activities. Both groups will be assessed at baseline and after the 8-week period to evaluate changes in cognitive, functional, and physical parameters.

Inclusion Criteria: * Individuals aged 60 years and older * Ability to walk 10 meters independently * Literacy (ability to read and write) Exclusion Criteria: * Taking sedative or hypnotic medications, * Having a neurological disorder (history of stroke, Parkinson's disease, MS, dementia), * Presence of cardiovascular complications (individuals diagnosed with COPD, pulmonary diseases, uncontrolled hypertension), * Postural abnormalities such as severe scoliosis or kyphosis, * Having communication problems Criteria for withdrawal from the study: * Individuals who fail to attend 70% of the training sessions, * Individuals who are unable to participate in the interim or final assessments, * Individuals who develop an acute systemic illness, * Individuals who wish to withdraw from the study.