The Association Between Cognitive Domains and Postural Balance among Healthy Older Adults: A Systematic Review of Literature and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review aims to explore which cognitive domain is more closely associated with which type of balance (static or dynamic).

Resent finding: Based on recent reviews, inhibitory control, a part of cognition, plays a crucial role in balance performance. Previous reviews report significant links between cognition, mobility, and physical function in older adults. However, evidence regarding the relationship between cognition and balance scores remains inconclusive. The strength of association between cognition and balance appears to be domain-specific and task-specific. Executive function exhibits the strongest correlation with balance, while episodic memory shows a small link with dynamic balance. Processing speed and global cognition demonstrate moderate correlations. Additionally, there is a slight association between cognitive domains and static balance. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and develop targeted interventions for managing balance-related concerns that are domain-specific and task-specific.

Keywords: Executive function; Global cognition; Processing speed; Relationship, Physical mobility; Static vs dynamic balance.