Cerebral hemodynamics response to dual-task paradigms in older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is a method to measure cerebral hemodynamics response. Changes in the prefrontal cortex during dual-tasking help to identify the risk of falling, particularly in older adults. Aims To systematically review and meta-analyze the effects of dual-task paradigms on cerebral hemodynamics in older adults. Methods The search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. A total of 22 studies comprising 1,841 older adults were included in the meta-analysis. Results Inhibitory control and working memory tasks significantly increased HbO 2 in the PFC by 0.54 ( p < 0.01, 95%CI = 0.36 – 0.72) and 0.13 ( p < 0.01, 95%CI = 0.08 – 0.18) μmol/L, respectively. Overall, HbO 2 was significantly increased during dual-task paradigms by 0.36 μmol/L ( P < 0.01, 95%CI = 0.27 – 0.45). However, dual-task paradigms did not change HbR in the PFC ( P = 0.14, 95%CI = -0.05 – 0.01). Conclusion Cognitive tasks related to inhibitory control required greater cognitive demands, indicating higher PFC activation during dual-task walking in older adults. This finding emphasizes the significance of assessing hemodynamic responses under dual-task paradigms to detect the risk of falling in older adults at an early stage.