Beta-1 Band Functional Connectivity Mediates the Effects of Acute Exercise on Cognitive Flexibility in Older Adults With Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective: The effects of different exercise modalities (mind-body, aerobic, and resistance training) on cognitive flexibility and brain functional connectivity in cognitively impaired older adults are unknown, and the mechanistic relationships linking acute exercise, cognitive flexibility, and neural connectivity remain unclear. Methods: A total of 60 older adults with cognitive impairment were recruited and randomly assigned to a Baduanjin group (n = 15), a brisk walking group (n = 15), a resistance band group (n = 15), or a control group (n = 15). Five-minute resting-state electroencephalography signals were collected and cognitive flexibility was assessed before and after the intervention. All exercise interventions were performed at a moderate intensity and lasted 30 minutes.

Inclusion Criteria: * Age ≥ 60 years old, gender not restricted; * Patients or their guardians report subjective cognitive decline; * Montreal Cognitive Function Assessment Scale \< 26 points; * Duration of cognitive dysfunction ≥ 6 months; * Willing to sign the informed consent form; * Good physical condition and able to complete the test; Exclusion Criteria: * History of severe mental disorders (severe depression, schizophrenia, etc.); * Using drugs that affect cognition (such as sedatives, antidepressants, etc.); * Limited language ability; * Consumed caffeine or alcohol the day before the test; * Suffering from serious diseases or injuries that make participation in the test inappropriate.