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Cognitive Training to Improve Mobility in Middle-aged and Older Adults (HnW)

Primary Purpose

Aging, Age Related Hearing Loss

Status
Recruiting
Phase
Not Applicable
Locations
Canada
Study Type
Interventional
Intervention
Executive function (EF) training
Sponsored by
Concordia University, Montreal
About
Eligibility
Locations
Arms
Outcomes
Full info

About this trial

This is an interventional prevention trial for Aging focused on measuring Cognitive training, Executive function, Aging, Dual-task walking, Near-infrared spectroscopy, Hearing loss, Middle age, Mobility

Eligibility Criteria

45 Years - 80 Years (Adult, Older Adult)All SexesAccepts Healthy Volunteers

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Proficient in English (learned before age 5), can ambulate ≥ 10 meters independently, absence of cognitive impairment (neuropsychological test results in the average range compared to age norms), normal or corrected-to-normal visual acuity (ETDRS), availability of a home computer or tablet with internet connection.

Exclusion Criteria:

  • Reported major depression, substance abuse or significant psychiatric disorder, uncorrected visual impairment, vestibular impairment, Parkinson's disease or other neurological disorder or sequelae, clinically significant musculoskeletal disorders, diseases affecting the ear, or damage to the ear (e.g., occupational noise), onset of hearing loss prior to adulthood.

Sites / Locations

  • Concordia UniversityRecruiting

Arms of the Study

Arm 1

Arm 2

Arm Type

Experimental

No Intervention

Arm Label

Executive function (EF) training

Wait-list control

Arm Description

12 weeks of at-home EF training on a computer or iPad

This will be a comparator arm with no cognitive training. Participants will be given access to the same training program following the conclusion of the study, but no further assessment is planned.

Outcomes

Primary Outcome Measures

Pre-training Change in auditory 2-back accuracy
Auditory 2-back performance will be assessed under single- and dual-task conditions (i.e., while the participant is standing or simultaneously walking on a treadmill at a self-selected pace). The numbers for the task will be played through binaural speakers, and the decibel level will be individualized for each participant depending on hearing ability. Participants will be required to make a button response indicating whether the number they heard was the same or different from the number they heard two previously. Accuracy (percent correct) will be recorded. Half the participants will be given this assessment. See Outcome 5, Multi-talker, for other half.
Post-training Change in auditory 2-back accuracy
Auditory 2-back performance will be assessed under single- and dual-task conditions (i.e., while the participant is standing or simultaneously walking on a treadmill at a self-selected pace). The numbers for the task will be played through binaural speakers, and the decibel level will be individualized for each participant depending on hearing ability. Participants will be required to make a button response indicating whether the number they heard was the same or different from the number they heard two previously. Accuracy (percent correct) will be recorded. Half the participants will be given this assessment. See Outcome 6, Multi-talker, for other half.
Pre-training Change in auditory 2-back reaction time
Auditory 2-back performance will be assessed under single- and dual-task conditions (i.e., while the participant is standing or simultaneously walking on a treadmill at a self-selected pace). The numbers for the task will be played through binaural speakers, and the decibel level will be individualized for each participant depending on hearing ability. Participants will be required to make a button response indicating whether the number they heard was the same or different from the number they heard two previously. Reaction time (msec) will be recorded. Half the participants will be given this assessment. See Outcome 5, Multi-talker, for other half.
Post-training Change in auditory 2-back reaction time
Auditory 2-back performance will be assessed under single- and dual-task conditions (i.e., while the participant is standing or simultaneously walking on a treadmill at a self-selected pace). The numbers for the task will be played through binaural speakers, and the decibel level will be individualized for each participant depending on hearing ability. Participants will be required to make a button response indicating whether the number they heard was the same or different from the number they heard two previously. Reaction time (msec) will be recorded. Half the participants will be given this assessment. See Outcome 6, Multi-talker, for other half.
Pre-training Multi-Talker word perception (accuracy)
We will use the multi-talker spatial listening task for the other half of the participants, in which a presented text cue indicates which of three simultaneously presented, but spatially distributed spoken sentences to report. Traffic noise will be included to more closely simulate real- world conditions. The signal-to-noise ratio will be held constant across participants, with signal intensity set according to individual average hearing thresholds.
Post-training Multi-Talker word perception (accuracy)
We will use the multi-talker spatial listening task for the other half of the participants, in which a presented text cue indicates which of three simultaneously presented, but spatially distributed spoken sentences to report. Traffic noise will be included to more closely simulate real- world conditions. The signal-to-noise ratio will be held constant across participants, with signal intensity set according to individual average hearing thresholds.
Pre-training Change in stride time (mean, standard deviation [SD] of stride time)
Stride time will be assessed under single- and dual-task conditions (i.e., walking on a treadmill at a self-selected pace or while simultaneously completing the auditory 2-back task). The spatio-temporal characteristics of gait will be measured by foot pressure sensors worn on the base of the participants' shoes, with one sensor placed beneath the heel and the second sensor placed beneath the toe. The time between successive toe or heel strikes will be recorded (sec) and averaged across the trials. Those participants being assessed with Outcome 5 will perform the same walking task but in a simulated street-crossing environment.
Post-training Change in stride time (mean, standard deviation [SD] of stride time)
Stride time will be assessed under single- and dual-task conditions (i.e., walking on a treadmill at a self-selected pace or while simultaneously completing the auditory 2-back task). The spatio-temporal characteristics of gait will be measured by foot pressure sensors worn on the base of the participants' shoes, with one sensor placed beneath the heel and the second sensor placed beneath the toe. The time between successive toe or heel strikes will be recorded (sec) and averaged across the trials. Those participants being assessed with Outcome 6 will perform the same walking task but in a simulated street-crossing environment.
Pre-training Change in stride time variability (mean, standard deviation [SD] of stride time)
Stride time variability will be assessed under single- and dual-task conditions (i.e., walking on a treadmill at a self-selected pace or while simultaneously completing the auditory 2-back task). The spatio-temporal characteristics of gait will be measured by foot pressure sensors worn on the base of the participants' shoes, with one sensor placed beneath the heel and the second sensor placed beneath the toe. The time between successive toe or heel strikes will be recorded (sec) and the standard deviation will be taken to derive a measure of stride time variability. Those participants being assessed with Outcome 5 will perform the same walking task but in a simulated street-crossing environment.
Post-training Change in stride time variability (mean, standard deviation [SD] of stride time)
Stride time variability will be assessed under single- and dual-task conditions (i.e., walking on a treadmill at a self-selected pace or while simultaneously completing the auditory 2-back task). The spatio-temporal characteristics of gait will be measured by foot pressure sensors worn on the base of the participants' shoes, with one sensor placed beneath the heel and the second sensor placed beneath the toe. The time between successive toe or heel strikes will be recorded (sec) and the standard deviation will be taken to derive a measure of stride time variability. Those participants being assessed with Outcome 6 will perform the same walking task but in a simulated street-crossing environment.

Secondary Outcome Measures

Pre-training Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)
Neuropsychological test to evaluate global cognitive status. Scored on 30, a score of 26 or higher is used to identify Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) however a score of 23 or higher is used in this study as this cut-off has been shown to lower false positivity. (Nasreddine et al., 2005)
Post-training Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)
Neuropsychological test to evaluate global cognitive status. Scored on 30, a score of 26 or higher is used to identify Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) however a score of 23 or higher is used in this study as this cut-off has been shown to lower false positivity. (Nasreddine et al., 2005)
Pre-training WAIS-IV Digit Symbol Coding
Neuropsychological test to evaluate processing speed. Subtest of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale IV (WAIS; Wechsler, 2008). Scored based on correct number of symbols completed in 120 seconds.
Post-training WAIS-IV Digit Symbol Coding
Neuropsychological test to evaluate processing speed. Subtest of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale IV (WAIS; Wechsler, 2008). Scored based on correct number of symbols completed in 120 seconds.
Pre-training Trail Making Test
Neuropsychological test to evaluate processing speed and executive functioning (Reitan, 1992). In form A, participants use a pencil to connect circles on a page in ascending numerical order. In form B, participants connect circles, alternating between ascending number and letter series. Time to complete (s) is recorded per form. Difference between Forms B and A completion times provides an index of switching, updating, and is considered a measure of executive function.
Post-training Trail Making Test
Neuropsychological test to evaluate processing speed and executive functioning (Reitan, 1992). In form A, participants use a pencil to connect circles on a page in ascending numerical order. In form B, participants connect circles, alternating between ascending number and letter series. Time to complete (s) is recorded per form. Difference between Forms B and A completion times provides an index of switching, updating, and is considered a measure of executive function.
Pre-training D-KEFS Stroop
Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System (D-KEFS) Color-Word Interference Test (CWIT) is a neuropsychological test to evaluate processing speed and executive functioning (adapted from Delis, Kaplan, & Kramer, 2001). A modification of the Stroop task (Stroop, 1935). In the CWIT, participants are asked to complete four conditions: colour naming, reading (both discontinued after 90 seconds), inhibition, and inhibition/switching (both discontinued after 180 seconds). Number correctly completed per condition.
Post-training D-KEFS Stroop
Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System (D-KEFS) Color-Word Interference Test (CWIT) is a neuropsychological test to evaluate processing speed and executive functioning (adapted from Delis, Kaplan, & Kramer, 2001). A modification of the Stroop task (Stroop, 1935). In the CWIT, participants are asked to complete four conditions: colour naming, reading (both discontinued after 90 seconds), inhibition, and inhibition/switching (both discontinued after 180 seconds). Number correctly completed per condition.
Pre-training Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test
Neuropsychological test to evaluate verbal memory (RAVLT; Rey, A. (1941). Scored by: adding up to correctly recalled words for each trial to obtain immediate recall total; how many correctly recalled words after the 30-minute interval to obtain their delayed recall total; divided delayed recall total by the total words correctly recalled on the fifth (last) trial of the initial administration and multiplied by 100 to obtain their percentage retention value.
Post-training Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test
Neuropsychological test to evaluate verbal memory (RAVLT; Rey, A. (1941). Scored by: adding up to correctly recalled words for each trial to obtain immediate recall total; how many correctly recalled words after the 30-minute interval to obtain their delayed recall total; divided delayed recall total by the total words correctly recalled on the fifth (last) trial of the initial administration and multiplied by 100 to obtain their percentage retention value.
Pre-training WAIS-IV Digit span
Neuropsychological test to evaluate short-term memory. Subtest of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale IV (WAIS; Wechsler, 2008). Scored based on highest span length correctly completed.
Post-training WAIS-IV Digit span
Neuropsychological test to evaluate short-term memory. Subtest of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale IV (WAIS; Wechsler, 2008). Scored based on highest span length correctly completed.
Pre-training Subjective listening self efficacy
Listening self-efficacy questionnaire (LSEQ: Smith, Pichora-Fuller, Watts, & La More, 2011, Int J Audiol). Asks questions about one's self-rated ability to understand conversation in a variety of contexts, without the use of hearing aids, self-rated self-efficacy (0-100%). Internal consistency (Chronbach's α) = .96 (Smith et al., 2011).
Post-training Subjective listening self efficacy
Listening self-efficacy questionnaire (LSEQ: Smith, Pichora-Fuller, Watts, & La More, 2011, Int J Audiol). Asks questions about one's self-rated ability to understand conversation in a variety of contexts, without the use of hearing aids. Internal consistency (Chronbach's α) = .96 (Smith et al., 2011).
Pre-training Subjective balance confidence
ABC Balance Confidence Questionnaire (Powell & Myers, 1995, J Geront: MedSci). Sixteen-item questionnaire concerning self-rated confidence (0-100%) balancing in different physical activities and contexts.
Post-training Subjective balance confidence
ABC Balance Confidence Questionnaire (Powell & Myers, 1995, J Geront: MedSci). Sixteen-item questionnaire concerning self-rated confidence (0-100%) balancing in different physical activities and contexts.
Pre-training Mobility functioning as assessed by the Mini BESTest
The Mini BESTest is comprised of four sub-scales to evaluate balance performance, including an anticipatory sub-scale (e.g., sit-to-stand, toe rise), a reactive postural control subscale (measures compensatory stepping when one's centre of balance is displaced in the forward, backward, or lateral position), a sensory orientation subscale (e.g., eyes closed, foam mat), and a gait subscale (e.g., walking over an obstacle).
Post-training Mobility functioning as assessed by the Mini BESTest
The Mini BESTest is comprised of four sub-scales to evaluate balance performance, including an anticipatory sub-scale (e.g., sit-to-stand, toe rise), a reactive postural control subscale (measures compensatory stepping when one's centre of balance is displaced in the forward, backward, or lateral position), a sensory orientation subscale (e.g., eyes closed, foam mat), and a gait subscale (e.g., walking over an obstacle).
Pre-training Functional neuroimaging (fNIRS)
Portable functional near infrared spectroscopy (BRITE MKII) will be used to assess prefrontal cortex activity during the single- and dual-task walking conditions. Sixteen detectors will be placed strategically 2.8 cm away from the optodes, eight of them will be dorsal to the optodes, while the other eight will be ventral, so that each probe has four dorsal detectors and four ventral detectors. The two probes will be placed symmetrically over the lateral prefrontal cortex and the most anterior and most ventral pair of optode-detector of each probe will be placed on Fp1/Fp2. The probes were designed based on existing configurations. Of interest are relative changes in concentration of frontal oxy-hemoglobin (HbO2: measured at absorption peak of 850nm) and deoxy-hemoglobin (HbR: measured at absorption peak of 735nm) compared to the baseline rest data.
Post-training Functional neuroimaging (fNIRS)
Portable functional near infrared spectroscopy (BRITE MKII) will be used to assess prefrontal cortex activity during the single- and dual-task walking conditions. Sixteen detectors will be placed strategically 2.8 cm away from the optodes, eight of them will be dorsal to the optodes, while the other eight will be ventral, so that each probe has four dorsal detectors and four ventral detectors. The two probes will be placed symmetrically over the lateral prefrontal cortex and the most anterior and most ventral pair of optode-detector of each probe will be placed on Fp1/Fp2. The probes were designed based on existing configurations. Of interest are relative changes in concentration of frontal oxy-hemoglobin (HbO2: measured at absorption peak of 850nm) and deoxy-hemoglobin (HbR: measured at absorption peak of 735nm) compared to the baseline rest data.
Pre-training Standing Balance (Path length)
Postural measures will include spatial measures (centre of pressure path length; cm) in the anterior-posterior (front and back) and medial-lateral (side-to-side) orientations.
Pre-training Standing Balance (Velocity)
Postural measures will include temporal measures (velocity; cm/s) in the anterior-posterior (front and back) and medial-lateral (side-to-side) orientations.
Pre-training Standing Balance (Variability)
Postural measures will include variability measures (root means square, standard deviation) in the anterior-posterior (front and back) and medial-lateral (side-to-side) orientations.
Post-training Standing Balance (Path length)
Postural measures will include spatial measures (centre of pressure path length; cm) in the anterior-posterior (front and back) and medial-lateral (side-to-side) orientations.
Post-training Standing Balance (Velocity)
Postural measures will include temporal measures (velocity; cm/s) in the anterior-posterior (front and back) and medial-lateral (side-to-side) orientations.
Post-training Standing Balance (Variability)
Postural measures will include variability measures (root means square, standard deviation) in the anterior-posterior (front and back) and medial-lateral (side-to-side) orientations.

Full Information

First Posted
May 26, 2022
Last Updated
September 21, 2023
Sponsor
Concordia University, Montreal
Collaborators
Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)
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1. Study Identification

Unique Protocol Identification Number
NCT05418998
Brief Title
Cognitive Training to Improve Mobility in Middle-aged and Older Adults
Acronym
HnW
Official Title
Training Cognition to Improve Mobility and Listening in Older Adults With Hearing Loss: Moving From Lab to Life
Study Type
Interventional

2. Study Status

Record Verification Date
September 2023
Overall Recruitment Status
Recruiting
Study Start Date
August 30, 2020 (Actual)
Primary Completion Date
August 15, 2024 (Anticipated)
Study Completion Date
August 15, 2024 (Anticipated)

3. Sponsor/Collaborators

Responsible Party, by Official Title
Principal Investigator
Name of the Sponsor
Concordia University, Montreal
Collaborators
Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)

4. Oversight

Studies a U.S. FDA-regulated Drug Product
No
Studies a U.S. FDA-regulated Device Product
No

5. Study Description

Brief Summary
The proposed study is designed to evaluate the effect of at-home executive function training on cognition and mobility in older adults with age-related hearing loss (ARHL), older adults with normal hearing, and middle-aged adults.

6. Conditions and Keywords

Primary Disease or Condition Being Studied in the Trial, or the Focus of the Study
Aging, Age Related Hearing Loss
Keywords
Cognitive training, Executive function, Aging, Dual-task walking, Near-infrared spectroscopy, Hearing loss, Middle age, Mobility

7. Study Design

Primary Purpose
Prevention
Study Phase
Not Applicable
Interventional Study Model
Parallel Assignment
Masking
Investigator
Masking Description
The investigator will be blinded to group assignment.
Allocation
Randomized
Enrollment
120 (Anticipated)

8. Arms, Groups, and Interventions

Arm Title
Executive function (EF) training
Arm Type
Experimental
Arm Description
12 weeks of at-home EF training on a computer or iPad
Arm Title
Wait-list control
Arm Type
No Intervention
Arm Description
This will be a comparator arm with no cognitive training. Participants will be given access to the same training program following the conclusion of the study, but no further assessment is planned.
Intervention Type
Behavioral
Intervention Name(s)
Executive function (EF) training
Intervention Description
EF training will involve at-home computer- or tablet based training to improve several EF processes, including divided attention, response inhibition, switching, and working memory updating. Training session duration = 30 min x 3 session/week.
Primary Outcome Measure Information:
Title
Pre-training Change in auditory 2-back accuracy
Description
Auditory 2-back performance will be assessed under single- and dual-task conditions (i.e., while the participant is standing or simultaneously walking on a treadmill at a self-selected pace). The numbers for the task will be played through binaural speakers, and the decibel level will be individualized for each participant depending on hearing ability. Participants will be required to make a button response indicating whether the number they heard was the same or different from the number they heard two previously. Accuracy (percent correct) will be recorded. Half the participants will be given this assessment. See Outcome 5, Multi-talker, for other half.
Time Frame
baseline
Title
Post-training Change in auditory 2-back accuracy
Description
Auditory 2-back performance will be assessed under single- and dual-task conditions (i.e., while the participant is standing or simultaneously walking on a treadmill at a self-selected pace). The numbers for the task will be played through binaural speakers, and the decibel level will be individualized for each participant depending on hearing ability. Participants will be required to make a button response indicating whether the number they heard was the same or different from the number they heard two previously. Accuracy (percent correct) will be recorded. Half the participants will be given this assessment. See Outcome 6, Multi-talker, for other half.
Time Frame
after 12 weeks
Title
Pre-training Change in auditory 2-back reaction time
Description
Auditory 2-back performance will be assessed under single- and dual-task conditions (i.e., while the participant is standing or simultaneously walking on a treadmill at a self-selected pace). The numbers for the task will be played through binaural speakers, and the decibel level will be individualized for each participant depending on hearing ability. Participants will be required to make a button response indicating whether the number they heard was the same or different from the number they heard two previously. Reaction time (msec) will be recorded. Half the participants will be given this assessment. See Outcome 5, Multi-talker, for other half.
Time Frame
baseline
Title
Post-training Change in auditory 2-back reaction time
Description
Auditory 2-back performance will be assessed under single- and dual-task conditions (i.e., while the participant is standing or simultaneously walking on a treadmill at a self-selected pace). The numbers for the task will be played through binaural speakers, and the decibel level will be individualized for each participant depending on hearing ability. Participants will be required to make a button response indicating whether the number they heard was the same or different from the number they heard two previously. Reaction time (msec) will be recorded. Half the participants will be given this assessment. See Outcome 6, Multi-talker, for other half.
Time Frame
after 12 weeks
Title
Pre-training Multi-Talker word perception (accuracy)
Description
We will use the multi-talker spatial listening task for the other half of the participants, in which a presented text cue indicates which of three simultaneously presented, but spatially distributed spoken sentences to report. Traffic noise will be included to more closely simulate real- world conditions. The signal-to-noise ratio will be held constant across participants, with signal intensity set according to individual average hearing thresholds.
Time Frame
baseline
Title
Post-training Multi-Talker word perception (accuracy)
Description
We will use the multi-talker spatial listening task for the other half of the participants, in which a presented text cue indicates which of three simultaneously presented, but spatially distributed spoken sentences to report. Traffic noise will be included to more closely simulate real- world conditions. The signal-to-noise ratio will be held constant across participants, with signal intensity set according to individual average hearing thresholds.
Time Frame
after 12 weeks
Title
Pre-training Change in stride time (mean, standard deviation [SD] of stride time)
Description
Stride time will be assessed under single- and dual-task conditions (i.e., walking on a treadmill at a self-selected pace or while simultaneously completing the auditory 2-back task). The spatio-temporal characteristics of gait will be measured by foot pressure sensors worn on the base of the participants' shoes, with one sensor placed beneath the heel and the second sensor placed beneath the toe. The time between successive toe or heel strikes will be recorded (sec) and averaged across the trials. Those participants being assessed with Outcome 5 will perform the same walking task but in a simulated street-crossing environment.
Time Frame
baseline
Title
Post-training Change in stride time (mean, standard deviation [SD] of stride time)
Description
Stride time will be assessed under single- and dual-task conditions (i.e., walking on a treadmill at a self-selected pace or while simultaneously completing the auditory 2-back task). The spatio-temporal characteristics of gait will be measured by foot pressure sensors worn on the base of the participants' shoes, with one sensor placed beneath the heel and the second sensor placed beneath the toe. The time between successive toe or heel strikes will be recorded (sec) and averaged across the trials. Those participants being assessed with Outcome 6 will perform the same walking task but in a simulated street-crossing environment.
Time Frame
after 12 weeks
Title
Pre-training Change in stride time variability (mean, standard deviation [SD] of stride time)
Description
Stride time variability will be assessed under single- and dual-task conditions (i.e., walking on a treadmill at a self-selected pace or while simultaneously completing the auditory 2-back task). The spatio-temporal characteristics of gait will be measured by foot pressure sensors worn on the base of the participants' shoes, with one sensor placed beneath the heel and the second sensor placed beneath the toe. The time between successive toe or heel strikes will be recorded (sec) and the standard deviation will be taken to derive a measure of stride time variability. Those participants being assessed with Outcome 5 will perform the same walking task but in a simulated street-crossing environment.
Time Frame
baseline
Title
Post-training Change in stride time variability (mean, standard deviation [SD] of stride time)
Description
Stride time variability will be assessed under single- and dual-task conditions (i.e., walking on a treadmill at a self-selected pace or while simultaneously completing the auditory 2-back task). The spatio-temporal characteristics of gait will be measured by foot pressure sensors worn on the base of the participants' shoes, with one sensor placed beneath the heel and the second sensor placed beneath the toe. The time between successive toe or heel strikes will be recorded (sec) and the standard deviation will be taken to derive a measure of stride time variability. Those participants being assessed with Outcome 6 will perform the same walking task but in a simulated street-crossing environment.
Time Frame
after 12 weeks
Secondary Outcome Measure Information:
Title
Pre-training Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)
Description
Neuropsychological test to evaluate global cognitive status. Scored on 30, a score of 26 or higher is used to identify Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) however a score of 23 or higher is used in this study as this cut-off has been shown to lower false positivity. (Nasreddine et al., 2005)
Time Frame
baseline
Title
Post-training Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)
Description
Neuropsychological test to evaluate global cognitive status. Scored on 30, a score of 26 or higher is used to identify Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) however a score of 23 or higher is used in this study as this cut-off has been shown to lower false positivity. (Nasreddine et al., 2005)
Time Frame
after 12 weeks
Title
Pre-training WAIS-IV Digit Symbol Coding
Description
Neuropsychological test to evaluate processing speed. Subtest of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale IV (WAIS; Wechsler, 2008). Scored based on correct number of symbols completed in 120 seconds.
Time Frame
baseline
Title
Post-training WAIS-IV Digit Symbol Coding
Description
Neuropsychological test to evaluate processing speed. Subtest of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale IV (WAIS; Wechsler, 2008). Scored based on correct number of symbols completed in 120 seconds.
Time Frame
after 12 weeks
Title
Pre-training Trail Making Test
Description
Neuropsychological test to evaluate processing speed and executive functioning (Reitan, 1992). In form A, participants use a pencil to connect circles on a page in ascending numerical order. In form B, participants connect circles, alternating between ascending number and letter series. Time to complete (s) is recorded per form. Difference between Forms B and A completion times provides an index of switching, updating, and is considered a measure of executive function.
Time Frame
baseline
Title
Post-training Trail Making Test
Description
Neuropsychological test to evaluate processing speed and executive functioning (Reitan, 1992). In form A, participants use a pencil to connect circles on a page in ascending numerical order. In form B, participants connect circles, alternating between ascending number and letter series. Time to complete (s) is recorded per form. Difference between Forms B and A completion times provides an index of switching, updating, and is considered a measure of executive function.
Time Frame
after 12 weeks
Title
Pre-training D-KEFS Stroop
Description
Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System (D-KEFS) Color-Word Interference Test (CWIT) is a neuropsychological test to evaluate processing speed and executive functioning (adapted from Delis, Kaplan, & Kramer, 2001). A modification of the Stroop task (Stroop, 1935). In the CWIT, participants are asked to complete four conditions: colour naming, reading (both discontinued after 90 seconds), inhibition, and inhibition/switching (both discontinued after 180 seconds). Number correctly completed per condition.
Time Frame
baseline
Title
Post-training D-KEFS Stroop
Description
Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System (D-KEFS) Color-Word Interference Test (CWIT) is a neuropsychological test to evaluate processing speed and executive functioning (adapted from Delis, Kaplan, & Kramer, 2001). A modification of the Stroop task (Stroop, 1935). In the CWIT, participants are asked to complete four conditions: colour naming, reading (both discontinued after 90 seconds), inhibition, and inhibition/switching (both discontinued after 180 seconds). Number correctly completed per condition.
Time Frame
after 12 weeks
Title
Pre-training Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test
Description
Neuropsychological test to evaluate verbal memory (RAVLT; Rey, A. (1941). Scored by: adding up to correctly recalled words for each trial to obtain immediate recall total; how many correctly recalled words after the 30-minute interval to obtain their delayed recall total; divided delayed recall total by the total words correctly recalled on the fifth (last) trial of the initial administration and multiplied by 100 to obtain their percentage retention value.
Time Frame
baseline
Title
Post-training Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test
Description
Neuropsychological test to evaluate verbal memory (RAVLT; Rey, A. (1941). Scored by: adding up to correctly recalled words for each trial to obtain immediate recall total; how many correctly recalled words after the 30-minute interval to obtain their delayed recall total; divided delayed recall total by the total words correctly recalled on the fifth (last) trial of the initial administration and multiplied by 100 to obtain their percentage retention value.
Time Frame
after 12 weeks
Title
Pre-training WAIS-IV Digit span
Description
Neuropsychological test to evaluate short-term memory. Subtest of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale IV (WAIS; Wechsler, 2008). Scored based on highest span length correctly completed.
Time Frame
baseline
Title
Post-training WAIS-IV Digit span
Description
Neuropsychological test to evaluate short-term memory. Subtest of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale IV (WAIS; Wechsler, 2008). Scored based on highest span length correctly completed.
Time Frame
after 12 weeks
Title
Pre-training Subjective listening self efficacy
Description
Listening self-efficacy questionnaire (LSEQ: Smith, Pichora-Fuller, Watts, & La More, 2011, Int J Audiol). Asks questions about one's self-rated ability to understand conversation in a variety of contexts, without the use of hearing aids, self-rated self-efficacy (0-100%). Internal consistency (Chronbach's α) = .96 (Smith et al., 2011).
Time Frame
baseline
Title
Post-training Subjective listening self efficacy
Description
Listening self-efficacy questionnaire (LSEQ: Smith, Pichora-Fuller, Watts, & La More, 2011, Int J Audiol). Asks questions about one's self-rated ability to understand conversation in a variety of contexts, without the use of hearing aids. Internal consistency (Chronbach's α) = .96 (Smith et al., 2011).
Time Frame
after 12 weeks
Title
Pre-training Subjective balance confidence
Description
ABC Balance Confidence Questionnaire (Powell & Myers, 1995, J Geront: MedSci). Sixteen-item questionnaire concerning self-rated confidence (0-100%) balancing in different physical activities and contexts.
Time Frame
baseline
Title
Post-training Subjective balance confidence
Description
ABC Balance Confidence Questionnaire (Powell & Myers, 1995, J Geront: MedSci). Sixteen-item questionnaire concerning self-rated confidence (0-100%) balancing in different physical activities and contexts.
Time Frame
after 12 weeks
Title
Pre-training Mobility functioning as assessed by the Mini BESTest
Description
The Mini BESTest is comprised of four sub-scales to evaluate balance performance, including an anticipatory sub-scale (e.g., sit-to-stand, toe rise), a reactive postural control subscale (measures compensatory stepping when one's centre of balance is displaced in the forward, backward, or lateral position), a sensory orientation subscale (e.g., eyes closed, foam mat), and a gait subscale (e.g., walking over an obstacle).
Time Frame
baseline
Title
Post-training Mobility functioning as assessed by the Mini BESTest
Description
The Mini BESTest is comprised of four sub-scales to evaluate balance performance, including an anticipatory sub-scale (e.g., sit-to-stand, toe rise), a reactive postural control subscale (measures compensatory stepping when one's centre of balance is displaced in the forward, backward, or lateral position), a sensory orientation subscale (e.g., eyes closed, foam mat), and a gait subscale (e.g., walking over an obstacle).
Time Frame
after 12 weeks
Title
Pre-training Functional neuroimaging (fNIRS)
Description
Portable functional near infrared spectroscopy (BRITE MKII) will be used to assess prefrontal cortex activity during the single- and dual-task walking conditions. Sixteen detectors will be placed strategically 2.8 cm away from the optodes, eight of them will be dorsal to the optodes, while the other eight will be ventral, so that each probe has four dorsal detectors and four ventral detectors. The two probes will be placed symmetrically over the lateral prefrontal cortex and the most anterior and most ventral pair of optode-detector of each probe will be placed on Fp1/Fp2. The probes were designed based on existing configurations. Of interest are relative changes in concentration of frontal oxy-hemoglobin (HbO2: measured at absorption peak of 850nm) and deoxy-hemoglobin (HbR: measured at absorption peak of 735nm) compared to the baseline rest data.
Time Frame
baseline
Title
Post-training Functional neuroimaging (fNIRS)
Description
Portable functional near infrared spectroscopy (BRITE MKII) will be used to assess prefrontal cortex activity during the single- and dual-task walking conditions. Sixteen detectors will be placed strategically 2.8 cm away from the optodes, eight of them will be dorsal to the optodes, while the other eight will be ventral, so that each probe has four dorsal detectors and four ventral detectors. The two probes will be placed symmetrically over the lateral prefrontal cortex and the most anterior and most ventral pair of optode-detector of each probe will be placed on Fp1/Fp2. The probes were designed based on existing configurations. Of interest are relative changes in concentration of frontal oxy-hemoglobin (HbO2: measured at absorption peak of 850nm) and deoxy-hemoglobin (HbR: measured at absorption peak of 735nm) compared to the baseline rest data.
Time Frame
after 12 weeks
Title
Pre-training Standing Balance (Path length)
Description
Postural measures will include spatial measures (centre of pressure path length; cm) in the anterior-posterior (front and back) and medial-lateral (side-to-side) orientations.
Time Frame
baseline
Title
Pre-training Standing Balance (Velocity)
Description
Postural measures will include temporal measures (velocity; cm/s) in the anterior-posterior (front and back) and medial-lateral (side-to-side) orientations.
Time Frame
baseline
Title
Pre-training Standing Balance (Variability)
Description
Postural measures will include variability measures (root means square, standard deviation) in the anterior-posterior (front and back) and medial-lateral (side-to-side) orientations.
Time Frame
baseline
Title
Post-training Standing Balance (Path length)
Description
Postural measures will include spatial measures (centre of pressure path length; cm) in the anterior-posterior (front and back) and medial-lateral (side-to-side) orientations.
Time Frame
after 12 weeks
Title
Post-training Standing Balance (Velocity)
Description
Postural measures will include temporal measures (velocity; cm/s) in the anterior-posterior (front and back) and medial-lateral (side-to-side) orientations.
Time Frame
after 12 weeks
Title
Post-training Standing Balance (Variability)
Description
Postural measures will include variability measures (root means square, standard deviation) in the anterior-posterior (front and back) and medial-lateral (side-to-side) orientations.
Time Frame
after 12 weeks

10. Eligibility

Sex
All
Minimum Age & Unit of Time
45 Years
Maximum Age & Unit of Time
80 Years
Accepts Healthy Volunteers
Accepts Healthy Volunteers
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Proficient in English (learned before age 5), can ambulate ≥ 10 meters independently, absence of cognitive impairment (neuropsychological test results in the average range compared to age norms), normal or corrected-to-normal visual acuity (ETDRS), availability of a home computer or tablet with internet connection. Exclusion Criteria: Reported major depression, substance abuse or significant psychiatric disorder, uncorrected visual impairment, vestibular impairment, Parkinson's disease or other neurological disorder or sequelae, clinically significant musculoskeletal disorders, diseases affecting the ear, or damage to the ear (e.g., occupational noise), onset of hearing loss prior to adulthood.
Central Contact Person:
First Name & Middle Initial & Last Name or Official Title & Degree
Karen ZH Li, PhD
Phone
1-514-848-2424
Ext
7542
Email
karen.li@concordia.ca
First Name & Middle Initial & Last Name or Official Title & Degree
Monica Toca
Phone
1-514-848-2424
Ext
2425
Email
monica.toca@concordia.ca
Facility Information:
Facility Name
Concordia University
City
Montreal
State/Province
Quebec
ZIP/Postal Code
H3G 1M8
Country
Canada
Individual Site Status
Recruiting
Facility Contact:
First Name & Middle Initial & Last Name & Degree
Monica Toca
Phone
1-514-848-2424
Ext
2425
Email
monica.toca@concordia.ca

12. IPD Sharing Statement

Plan to Share IPD
Yes

Learn more about this trial

Cognitive Training to Improve Mobility in Middle-aged and Older Adults

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