The Relation Between Physical Activity and Cognitive Change in Older Latinos

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Neuroscience
• Public Health

Background:

• Cognitive impairment is a growing concern in older Latinos, a rapidly expanding demographic at higher risk for dementia.
• Existing research on physical activity (PA) and cognition primarily involves non-Latino White populations.
• Longitudinal studies on older Latinos, using objective PA measures and comprehensive cognitive assessments, are limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the longitudinal relationship between changes in physical activity (PA) and cognitive decline in older Latino adults.
• To explore how different intensities of PA impact specific cognitive domains over time.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal study followed 59 older Latino adults (age ≥50) in Chicago over approximately 5 years.
• Physical activity was assessed using both self-report questionnaires and accelerometers.
• Cognitive function was evaluated using a neurocognitive test battery assessing episodic memory, perceptual speed, and semantic memory.

Main Results:

• Reduced decline in self-reported light physical activity was associated with maintained episodic memory (OR = 1.16, 95% CI [1.03, 1.32]).
• Reduced decline in accelerometer-measured moderate-to-vigorous physical activity bouts was linked to maintained semantic memory (OR = 16.08, 95% CI [1.53, 168.89]).
• These associations remained significant after controlling for baseline age, chronic health, depressive symptoms, and acculturation.

Conclusions:

• Maintaining physical activity levels throughout aging may be a key strategy to prevent cognitive decline in older Latinos.
• Findings support the development of interventions aimed at promoting sustained physical activity to preserve cognitive function in this population.