Karen Li

Karen Li is a Professor of Psychology and Graduate Program Director (MA) at Concordia University. She holds affiliations with the Centre for Research in Human Development (CRDH), the School of Health (PERFORM Centre), and the engAGE Centre for research on aging. Her work focuses on cognitive control processes in multi-tasking contexts, particularly in aging populations. Key areas include the coordination of cognitive and motor tasks (e.g., gait, balance) under dual-task conditions, adaptive strategies in older adults, and interventions combining exercise and cognitive training to mitigate cognitive-motor decline.

• Education: PhD in Psychology from the University of Toronto.
• Research Themes: Healthy aging, executive functions, cognitive-motor interference, hearing loss, and dementia prevention.
• Team Leadership: Member of Team 12 in the Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging (CCNA), studying multimodal interventions for cognition and mobility in at-risk older adults.

Her research underscores the interplay between sensory, motor, and cognitive systems in aging. Recent studies explore how hearing loss impacts dual-task performance and how combined interventions (e.g., exercise + cognitive training) can synergistically improve mobility and cognition. Key findings highlight the importance of addressing sensory impairments (e.g., hearing, vision) in developing targeted interventions.

Publications emphasize real-world applications of dual-task paradigms, such as simulating listening-while-walking scenarios, and systematic reviews on cognitive-motor interference. Collaborations with interdisciplinary teams (e.g., CRDH, engAGE) ensure translational impact in aging research.