Comparing Different Breathing Exercises Added to Balance Training on Cognitive and Functional Outcomes in Elderly Population

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how adding breathing exercises to balance training affects thinking skills in adults aged 65 and older. The trial aims to find out if breathing exercises influence cognitive function and whether different breathing techniques have different effects. This interventional study involves testing two breathing protocols to evaluate their impact on cognition. Participants will join an 8-week program where they attend sessions twice a week. Each session includes 30 minutes of balance exercises designed to improve stability and reduce fall risk, supervised by a physical therapist. After that, participants perform 15 minutes of breathing exercises, either inspiratory muscle training using a special device or a breathing exercise program focusing on techniques like diaphragmatic and pursed-lip breathing. Throughout the study, cognition will be assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) before and after the intervention period. Lung function and respiratory muscle strength will also be monitored through spirometry and maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressure tests. Participants will be supported during sessions and observed for changes in cognitive and functional outcomes over the 8 weeks of active intervention.

Effects of Breathing Exercises on Cognition in Older Adults