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Cognitive Reserve and Frontotemporal Disorders: Exploring the Relationship Between Education, Physical Activity, and
Josue G Amian1, Cristina Fernandez-Portero1, Rocío de la Bella2
1Department of Social Anthropology, Psychology and Public Health, Pablo de Olavide University, Seville, Spain.
Perceptual and Motor Skills
|March 25, 2024
Summary
Physical activity (PA) and education can protect against cognitive dysfunction, even in individuals with frontotemporal disorders (FTD). High levels of PA and education may offset the negative effects of FTD on cognitive functioning in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
- Public Health
Background:
- Cognitive reserve (CR) proxies like education and physical activity (PA) may delay cognitive dysfunction (CD) and dementia.
- The protective effect of CR proxies in the presence of frontotemporal disorders (FTD) remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between CR proxies (education, PA) and CD in older adults with and without FTD.
- To determine if sustained CR is evident regardless of FTD presence.
Main Methods:
- 149 older adults (65-99 years) recruited from community centers.
- Bioelectrical impedance for body composition, International PA Questionnaire, Mini-Mental State Examination for cognitive function.
- Frontal Assessment Battery used for FTD screening.
Main Results:
- Individuals with FTD were older, had lower education, and less PA compared to controls.
- Age, education, and PA significantly predicted FTD.
- High PA and education levels offset the negative impact of FTD on cognitive functioning.
Conclusions:
- PA and education provide a compensatory effect on cognitive functioning in older adults with executive dysfunction or FTD.
- Encouraging physical activity and education is crucial for maintaining cognitive health in aging populations, particularly those at risk for or with FTD.
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