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Updated: Feb 16, 2026

Author Spotlight: Automated Lifespan Monitoring – Discovering Aging Dynamics with the Lifespan Machine
Published on: January 26, 2024
Lifespan leisure physical activity profile, brain plasticity and cognitive function in old age
Tobias Engeroff1, Lutz Vogt1, Johannes Fleckenstein1
1a Department of Sports Medicine, Institute of Sports Sciences , Goethe University , Frankfurt , Germany.
Objectives:
Despite the evidence suggesting physical activity (PA) as a major factor for the prevention of age-related cognitive decline, only a few studies have systematically investigated the impact of leisure PA during the lifespan (LLPA). This study investigates the effects of LLPA on cognitive function (CF) and brain plasticity (BP) in old age.
Method:
Participants' (n = 50, 72 ± 5 yrs, 27 females) LLPA energy expenditure and volume was assessed via a validated questionnaire investigating five epochs (14-80 yrs). Using current WHO PA recommendations as reference, participants were stratified into energy expenditure and volume groups. CF outcomes were attention, executive functions, working memory and memory. BP was assessed using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRSI) and brain derived neurotropic factor (BDNF).
Results:
Correlation analysis revealed associations of mean LLPA energy expenditure with attention (CF) and N-acetylaspartate to choline ratios (NAA/Cho) (MRSI). ANOVA revealed higher interference control performance (CF) and NAA/Cho in participants complying with current PA recommendations (2-3 h per week) compared to non-compliers. Further CF and BP outcomes including BDNF were not associated with LLPA.
Conclusion:
Lifelong adherence to minimum recommended PA seems to be associated with markers of cognitive function and neuronal integrity in old age.
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