Neurovascular de-coupling underlies dual-task cost across cognitive abilities.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

We tested the hypothesis that increased middle cerebral artery velocity (MCA velocity) during complex motor (overground walking) and cognitive tasks (e.g., dual task) is associated with cognitive performance in older adults with varying levels of cognitive ability.

Methods

Fifty-six participants (19 females, 75 ± 7 years old) completed a seated single task that assessed working memory performance; a walking single task, assessing overground walking gait speed; and a dual task, combining both. Continuous MCA velocity was collected, and participants completed a Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA).

Results

Higher MCA velocity was associated with faster gait speed, better working memory performance, and greater MoCA scores (all p < 0.05). Participants

SUBMITTER: Fitzgibbon-Collins LK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12504060 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct-Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature