In the quest to find alternative non-pharmacological treatments for dementia prevention during the COVID-19 pandemic, a study investigated the impact of an online physical exercise program with music on cognitive function. The study involved 114 healthy older adults who either participated in the exercise program or acted as controls. After a series of neuropsychological examinations and brain tests, it was found that the group engaged in physical exercise with music experienced significant improvement in working memory compared to the control group. It’s like boogying for your brain! Working memory, which is mostly associated with the frontal lobe, plays a critical role in many cognitive tasks. By stimulating brain activity through music and movement, this online exercise program appears to enhance working memory. These findings provide valuable insights into the potential benefits of integrating music into physical exercise programs for brain health. So put on your dancing shoes and check out the fascinating research behind this mind-boosting program!
ObjectiveThe spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has limited the implementation of face-to-face non-pharmacological treatment for the prevention of dementia. As a result, online non-pharmacological treatment has become increasingly important. In this study, we used an online conferencing system to implement an online version of a physical exercise program with music, and examined its effect on cognitive function.MethodsThe participants were 114 healthy older adults [63 men and 51 women; mean age of 70.7 years (standard deviation = 4.6)]. Seventy-five participants were allocated to the physical exercise with music group (60 min, once a week, total 20 sessions), while the remaining 39 participants were assigned to the control group, and only underwent the examinations. In the physical exercise with music group, we performed neuropsychological examinations and brain tests both before and after the exercise program. Neuropsychological tests included the Mini-Mental State Examination, Raven’s Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM), the Rivermead Behavioral Memory Test, graphic imitation, word fluency (WF) (animal names and initial sounds), and the Trail Making Test-A/B. As an assessment of brain function, we developed an online examination of subtle cognitive decline, including tests of number and word memory, spatial grasp, the N-back task, and change inference.ResultsIn the N-back task, the physical exercise with music group improved significantly relative to the control group (p = 0.008).DiscussionThe present findings suggest that the online version of the physical exercise with music program improved working memory, which mainly involves the frontal lobe.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.