Effect of Dual-Task Net Step Exercise on Working Memory, Global Cognitive Function and Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor Serum Levels in Elderly with Mild and Moderate Cognitive Impairment

Background: Mild and moderate cognitive impairment in elderly lead to activity limitation and decrease quality of life. Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels is decreased in elderly with cognitive impairment. Physical exercise can promote cognitive function improvement. One of the mechanisms is through BDNF. Objective: Analyzed the effect of dual-task Net Step Exercise (NSE) on working memory, global cognitive function and BDNF serum levels in elderly with mild and moderate cognitive impairment. Method: The study was pretest-posttest control group design, which enrolled 26 elderly subjects with mild and moderate cognitive impairment, 13 subjects in intervention (dual-task NSE) group and 13 subjects in control group. Before and after study working memory, global cognitive function and serum levels of BDNF was examined quantitatively with enzyme linked immune-sorbent assay (ELISA). Result: There was improvement of mini-mental state examination (MMSE) score (p = 0.001) and trail making test-B (TMT-B) score (p = 0.03) in intervention group after 8 weeks of dual-task NSE, while there was no improvement in control group. There was significant elevation of BDNF serum levels in intervention group after 8 weeks of dual-task NSE (p<0.001) while there was no significant change of BDNF serum levels in control group (p = 0.107). Conclusion: Dual-task NSE could improve working memory and global cognitive function and also increase BDNF serum levels in elderly with mild to moderate cognitive impairment.