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Independent and combined effects of cognitive and physical activity on incident MCI
Tiffany F Hughes1, James T Becker2, Ching-Wen Lee1
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh PA, USA.
Introduction:
The objective of this study was to examine the independent and combined influences of late-life cognitive activity (CA) and physical activity (PA) on the risk of incident mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
Methods:
We used interval censored survival modeling to examine the risk of incident MCI (Clinical Dementia Rating [CDR] = 0.5) as a function of CA (high vs. low) and at least moderate intensity PA (any vs. none) among 864 cognitively normal (CDR = 0) older adults.
Results:
During three annual follow-up waves, 72 participants developed MCI. Compared with low CA with no PA, significant reductions in risk for MCI were observed for high CA with any PA (hazards ratio (HR) = 0.20, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.07-0.52) and low CA with any PA (HR = 0.52, 95% CI 0.29-0.93), but not for high CA without PA (HR = 0.94, 95% CI 0.45-1.95).
Discussion:
These findings suggest that a combination of CA and PA may be most efficacious at reducing the risk for cognitive impairment.
Insights
Engaging in both cognitive activity (CA) and physical activity (PA) significantly lowers the risk of developing mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in older adults. Combining CA and PA offers the greatest protection against cognitive decline.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neuroscience
- Public Health
Background:
- Late-life cognitive and physical activity (CA and PA) are crucial for maintaining cognitive health.
- Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a growing concern in aging populations.
- Understanding the interplay between CA and PA is vital for prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the independent and combined effects of CA and PA on incident MCI risk.
- To determine if high CA or moderate-to-high PA alone or together impacts MCI development.
- To provide evidence for lifestyle interventions aimed at preserving cognitive function in older adults.
Main Methods:
- Interval-censored survival modeling was employed.
- 864 cognitively normal older adults were analyzed.
- Risk of MCI was assessed based on high vs. low CA and presence vs. absence of PA.
Main Results:
- High CA with any PA showed a significant reduction in MCI risk (HR=0.20).
- Low CA with any PA also reduced MCI risk (HR=0.52).
- High CA without PA did not significantly alter MCI risk (HR=0.94).
Conclusions:
- A combination of cognitive and physical activity appears most effective in reducing MCI risk.
- Physical activity, even with lower cognitive engagement, shows protective benefits.
- Lifestyle interventions should encourage both cognitive and physical engagement for optimal cognitive health in aging.
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