Does Adding Mindfulness to Instability Resistance Training Enhance Dual-Task Mobility and Fall-Related Outcomes in Older Adults with Motoric Cognitive Risk Syndrome? A Randomized Controlled Trial

Authors

  • Gabriel de Amorim Batista University of Pernambuco
  • Vinícius Yan Santos Nascimento University of Pernambuco
  • Bruno Remígio Cavalcante University of Pernambuco; Federal University of São Francisco Valley
  • Mateus Santos Silva Federal University of São Francisco Valley
  • Higo Faraday Paraíso Leão Federal University of Pernambuco
  • Laís Regina de Holanda Santos University of Pernambuco
  • Dayane Tays da Silva University of Pernambuco
  • Mariana Ferreira de Souza Federal University of São Francisco Valley
  • Ana Carolina Rodarti Pitangui University of Pernambuco
  • Rodrigo Cappato De Araújo University of Pernambuco

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5770/cgj.29.945

Keywords:

Motoric Cognitive Risk Syndrome, Unstable surface, Dual-task Performance, Falls, Resistance training, Mindfulness

Abstract

Background

Older adults with motoric cognitive risk syndrome (MCR) exhibit impairments in dual-task mobility. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as physical exercise and cognitive strategies, have been proposed to mitigate physical and cognitive decline. However, the effectiveness of combining these approaches remains unclear.

Objective

To evaluate the effects of instability resistance training (IRT) performed with or without mindfulness on mobility under single- and dual-task conditions and fall- related outcomes in older adults with MCR.

Methods

In this parallel-group randomized controlled trial, 56 community-dwelling older adults with MCR (≥65 years) were allocated to IRT or combined with mindfulness (IRT + Mind). Both groups trained twice weekly for 24 weeks. Primary outcomes included single- and dual-task Timed Up and Go (TUG). Secondary outcomes were dual-task cost, concern about falling (Falls Efficacy Scale–International), and balance confidence (Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale). Outcomes were analyzed using generalized mixed models.

Results

For single-task TUG, a significant main effect of time was observed (p < .001), with similar improvements in both groups (0.62–0.80 s). Dual-task TUG performance improved over time for both cognitive conditions, with significant group × time interactions favoring the IRT group (p ≤ .049). Dual-task cost did not change significantly. Balance confidence improved significantly over time in both groups (mean increase ≈14 points; p < .001), whereas concern about falling remained unchanged.

Conclusion

IRT improved mobility and confidence in balance in older adults with MCR. The addition of mindfulness did not provide incremental benefits, suggesting that motor-based training alone is sufficient to promote functional gains in this population.

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Published

2026-09-02

How to Cite

1.
de Amorim Batista G, Yan Santos Nascimento V, Remígio Cavalcante B, Santos Silva M, Faraday Paraíso Leão H, de Holanda Santos LR, Tays da Silva D, Ferreira de Souza M, Rodarti Pitangui AC, Cappato De Araújo R. Does Adding Mindfulness to Instability Resistance Training Enhance Dual-Task Mobility and Fall-Related Outcomes in Older Adults with Motoric Cognitive Risk Syndrome? A Randomized Controlled Trial. Can Geriatr J [Internet]. 2026 Sep. 2 [cited 2026 Sep. 3];29(3):189-9. Available from: https://cgjonline.ca/index.php/cgj/article/view/945

Issue

Vol. 29 No. 3 (2026)

Section

Original Research

License

Copyright (c) 2026 Author(s)

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