Just like a choreographed dance, the connection between our mind and body in the aging process is now being explored. Recent research has revealed a close relationship between locomotion (our ability to move) and executive functions (our cognitive abilities). This newfound understanding has led scientists to develop interventions that target both aspects simultaneously. One such intervention is the dual-task approach, where individuals perform cognitive tasks while walking or moving. However, most current interventions focus on only one aspect at a time, treating the mind and body as separate entities. To bridge this gap, researchers propose a holistic approach that integrates the mind and body together, utilizing technologies like Virtual Reality (VR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). VR allows for the creation of immersive environments with engaging challenges that simulate real-life situations for patients. Meanwhile, AI can analyze large amounts of data from different sources to develop predictive models and personalized interventions. By combining these technologies, scientists hope to enhance cognition and physical aspects in a comprehensive and multidimensional manner. To delve deeper into this exciting research, read the full article!

Aging may be associated with conditions characterized by motor and cognitive alterations, which could have a detrimental impact on daily life. Although motors and cognitive aspects have always been treated as separate entities, recent literature highlights their relationship, stressing a strong association between locomotion and executive functions. Thus, designing interventions targeting the risks deriving from both components’ impairments is crucial: the dual-task represents a starting point. Although its role in targeting and decreasing difficulties in aging is well known, most interventions are focused on a single domain, proposing a vertical model in which patients emerge only for a single aspect per time during assessment and rehabilitation. In this perspective, we propose a view of the individual as a whole between mind and body, suggesting a multicomponent and multidomain approach that could integrate different domains at the same time retracing lifelike situations. Virtual Reality, thanks to the possibility to develop daily environments with engaging challenges for patients, as well as to manage different devices to collect multiple data, provides the optimal scenario in which the integration could occur. Artificial Intelligence, otherwise, offers the best methodologies to integrate a great amount of various data to create a predictive model and identify appropriate and individualized interventions. Based on these assumptions the present perspective aims to propose the development of a new approach to an integrated, multimethod, multidimensional training in order to enhance cognition and physical aspects based on behavioral data, incorporating consolidated technologies in an innovative approach to neurology.

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