Exercising the brain may do more than help older individuals improve their memory and focus, according to a new study in the Journal of Gerontology. Researchers say there’s evidence that computerized brain fitness programs may help frail seniors walk faster, potentially preventing disability and improving quality of life.

Scientists at Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University studied 20 frail individuals who were over the age of 70, led a sedentary lifestyle and walked slowly. Half participated in a brain fitness program three times each week for eight weeks, with each training session lasting from 45 to 60 minutes. During the sessions, they carried out tasks aimed at sharpening cognitive abilities such as focusing, planning, organizing and problem solving. The other half served as a control group.

Compared with their speeds at the start of the study, the 10 seniors who exercised their brains were able to slightly improve their normal-walking velocity. They were also able to noticeably improve the speed in which they walk while talking, which requires considerably more concentration.

"The results suggest that brain fitness programs show promise for helping the frail elderly walk better,” said lead author Joe Verghese, M.D.
Researchers say a larger study is needed to confirm their findings.