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Physical activity and brain plasticity in late adulthood
Kirk I Erickson1, Ariel G Gildengers, Meryl A Butters
1Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA. kiericks@pitt.edu
Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience
|April 12, 2013
Summary
Regular physical activity helps maintain brain health in older adults by promoting plasticity, reducing brain shrinkage, and improving cognitive function. This intervention leverages the brain
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
- Exercise Science
Background:
- Aging is associated with natural brain shrinkage and reduced cognitive function.
- Despite age-related changes, the adult brain retains plasticity, offering potential for intervention.
- Physical activity is increasingly recognized for its potential to counteract age-related cognitive decline.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the scientific literature linking physical activity to brain health in aging.
- To explore how physical activity enhances brain plasticity and cognitive function in later life.
- To investigate the specific brain regions affected by physical activity and its implications for neurocognitive disorders.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of existing research studies.
- Analysis of findings on physical activity, cortical atrophy, and cognitive performance.
- Examination of neuroimaging and cognitive assessment data.
Main Results:
- Greater physical activity is associated with reduced cortical atrophy.
- Physical activity enhances overall brain function and cognitive performance in older adults.
- Prefrontal and hippocampal areas show particular sensitivity to the effects of physical activity.
Conclusions:
- Physical activity capitalizes on the brain's plasticity to support cognitive and emotional health in aging.
- The specific effects of physical activity on brain regions provide a basis for understanding its role in treating disorders like depression.
- Physical activity is a promising, non-pharmacological intervention for improving brain function and mental well-being in late adulthood.
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