True or False: Targeted exercise training can reduce fall risk in older adults by improving executive functioning.

The statement is true because targeted exercise training has been shown to enhance various physical and cognitive functions, including executive functioning. Executive functioning encompasses skills that allow for planning, organizing, problem-solving, and managing attention, all of which are critical for maintaining balance and navigating environments to prevent falls.

Research demonstrates that structured exercise programs can lead to improvements in both physical strength and mental acuity among older adults. For instance, exercises that challenge balance and coordination also engage the brain, thereby fostering better cognitive processing and decision-making in real-time situations, which is essential in fall prevention.

Engagement in regular physical activity not only strengthens the musculoskeletal system but can also assist in neuroplasticity, which is crucial for cognitive resilience. Therefore, targeted exercise can indeed lower the risk of falls by not only improving balance and strength but also by enhancing the cognitive skills necessary to respond effectively to environmental challenges.