Coupling of sensorimotor and cognitive functions in middle- and late adulthood

Introduction: The present study explored age effects and the coupling of sensorimotor and cognitive functions in a stratified sample of 96 middle-aged and older adults (age 45–86 years) with no indication of mild cognitive decline. Sensorimotor tasks emphasized listening in noise and postural control, with additional assessments of functional mobility and tactile sensitivity. Methods: Cognitive measures comprised processing speed and core executive functions (inhibition, task switching, working memory updating). We tested whether sensorimotor measures mediate age differences in cognitive variables and compared their effects to processing speed. We also examined whether individuals performing poorer or better than the median for their age group on cognitive tasks showed correspondingly poorer or better sensorimotor performance, and whether links strengthen in older age. Results: Except for tactile sensitivity, substantial age-related differences were observed in all sensorimotor and cognitive variables from middle age onward. Processing speed and functional mobility were reliable mediators of age effects on task switching and inhibitory control. Regarding coupling, individuals with poor cognitive control did not necessarily have poor listening-in-noise skills or poor postural control. Discussion: As most conditions did not show interdependency between sensorimotor and cognitive performance, other domain-specific factors must play roles. These should be researched to better understand how rehabilitation may impact cognitive functioning in aging persons.

Astrid van Wieringen, Mira Van Wilderode, Nathan Van Humbeeck, Ralf Krampe