Multicomponent training versus elastic-band training for improving global cognition and executive function in older women: a randomized controlled trial

Objective To compare the effects of multicomponent training (MCT) and elastic-band training (EBT) on global cognition and executive function in older women. Methods This single-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial was conducted over 16 weeks and included two supervised 60-min sessions per week. Twenty-six older women were randomly assigned to either the MCT group ( n = 13) or the EBT group ( n = 13). Cognitive outcomes included global cognition assessed with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), processing speed and visual attention assessed with the Trail Making Test Part A (TMT-A), and executive function assessed with the Trail Making Test Part B (TMT-B). Linear mixed-effects models were used to evaluate group, time, and group × time effects while adjusting for age and education. TMT-B was predefined as the primary executive function outcome. Results A significant group × time interaction was observed for TMT-B performance ( p = 0.019). However, neither the within-group nor between-group post hoc comparisons remained significant after false discovery rate (FDR) correction, and the interaction did not remain significant when FDR correction was conservatively applied across all model-level interactions. No significant group × time interactions were observed for MoCA ( p = 0.289) or TMT-A ( p = 0.214). Conclusion Although the primary model suggested different temporal trajectories in TMT-B performance, the nonsignificant adjusted post hoc comparisons and the conservative sensitivity analysis preclude any conclusion that MCT was superior to EBT. Neither intervention produced significant changes in global cognitive performance or processing speed and visual attention. Therefore, the TMT-B finding should be considered exploratory and requires confirmation in larger, adequately powered randomized controlled trials.