Physical Exercise As Stabilizer For Alzheimer'S Disease Cognitive Decline: Current Status

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Gerontology
• Public Health

Background:

• Cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease (AD) significantly increase healthcare costs.
• While physical exercise shows promise in mitigating cognitive decline, evidence is limited by inconsistent study protocols.
• Lack of detailed exercise parameters (intensity, duration, frequency) hinders assessment of its efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore confounders and neurophysiological mechanisms underlying the effects of physical exercise on cognitive function.
• To address inconsistencies in research design and exercise protocol reporting.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for exercise interventions in AD.

Main Methods:

• Discussion of potential confounding factors influencing study outcomes.
• Exploration of neurophysiological mechanisms of exercise's impact on the brain.
• Review of existing literature on physical exercise and cognitive assessments.

Main Results:

• Most studies indicate a positive association between physical exercise and cognitive performance.
• Inconsistencies in study designs, cognitive assessments, and fitness measures were observed.
• Evidence suggests moderate-intensity exercise may improve neurodegeneration, neuroplasticity, and neuroprotection.

Conclusions:

• Physical exercise is a crucial neuroprotective modulator for managing cognitive decline.
• Consistent exercise can significantly control disease progression and enhance brain functions.
• Moderate-intensity exercise is recommended for its benefits in Alzheimer's disease patients.