Neural signatures of dual-task walking demands in individuals at risk of cognitive impairment

Difficulties in complex daily activities are a hallmark of dementia syndromes. We examined neural signatures of complex daily activity using electroencephalography in forty-five older adults performing a dual-task walking paradigm. Participants were stratified by risk of cognitive impairment (CI). Brain activation linked to gait-related and cognitive events was recorded during single- and dual-task conditions. We hypothesized that a higher risk of CI is associated with poorer performance and distinct fronto-parietal activation during dual-task walking. Cognitive performance declined during walking, with individuals at higher risk of CI performing worse. Increased brain activity during the cognitive task was associated with a lower risk of CI. Both groups showed increased gait-related activation of sensorimotor and fronto-medial cortices during dual-task walking; however, greater sensorimotor activation was observed in individuals at higher risk of CI. Neural signatures of complex daily activity may help identify early signs of cognitive decline and inform prevention strategies.