Global Cognition and Inhibition as Predictors of Dynamic Balance in Aging Populations: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objectives: To determine which cognitive domains predict dynamic balance performance in older adults to guide targeted cognitive-motor interventions to enhance balance and reduce fall risk. Methods: This cross-sectional study used hierarchical multiple regression to analyze relationships between cognitive domains and dynamic balance among 62 community-dwelling older adults (≥65 years). Balance was assessed using the Y Balance Test (YBT) and Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), while cognitive function was measured using the Mini-Mental State Examination (global cognition), Stroop Test (inhibition), N-back Test (working memory), and Deary-Liewald Reaction Time Test (processing speed). Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Although all cognitive domains correlated with dynamic balance, regression analyses indicated that only global cognition and inhibition were significant predictors. Specifically, global cognition significantly predicted both TUG and YBT performance, whereas inhibition uniquely predicted YBT performance (all p < 0.05). Conclusions: Our findings indicate that global cognition and inhibition are key cognitive predictors of dynamic balance in older adults. Assessing these domains could identify individuals at risk of impaired balance, facilitating the design of targeted, personalized cognitive-motor interventions. Future research should investigate cognitively enriched exercise programs, including digital therapeutics and wearable technologies, to effectively target these cognitive domains, enhance balance outcomes, and promote sustained physical activity adherence in aging populations.