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Physical Activity as Protective Factor against Dementia: A Prospective Population-Based Study (NEDICES)
Sara Llamas-Velasco1, Israel Contador2, Alberto Villarejo-Galende1
11Department of Neurology,University Hospital "12 de Octubre",Madrid,Spain.
Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society : JINS
|November 20, 2015
Summary
Regular physical activity (PA) significantly reduces dementia risk in older adults. Engaging in light, moderate, or high levels of PA offers protection against developing dementia over a 3-year period.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Epidemiology
- Neurology
Background:
- Dementia is a growing public health concern, particularly among aging populations.
- Identifying modifiable risk factors like physical activity is crucial for dementia prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between physical activity levels and the incidence of dementia in older adults.
- To determine if physical activity acts as a protective factor against dementia development.
Main Methods:
- Prospective population-based cohort study (Neurological Disorders in Central Spain - NEDICES) with 5278 participants aged 65+ at baseline.
- Physical activity assessed using the Rosow-Breslau questionnaire, categorizing participants into sedentary, light, moderate, and high activity groups.
- Cox regression models, adjusted for covariates, analyzed the risk of dementia incidence after a 3-year follow-up.
Main Results:
- 134 incident dementia cases were identified among 3105 participants over 3 years.
- Individuals engaging in light, moderate, and high physical activity showed significantly reduced dementia risk compared to the sedentary group (HRs: 0.40, 0.32, 0.23, respectively).
- These protective effects remained significant after controlling for covariates and excluding uncertain cases.
Conclusions:
- Physical activity is a significant protective factor against the incidence of dementia in a population-based cohort of older adults.
- Higher levels of physical activity are associated with a lower risk of developing dementia.
- Findings support the promotion of physical activity as a key strategy for dementia prevention in aging populations.
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