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Relationship Between Physical Exercise and Cognitive Function Among Older Adults in China: Cross-Sectional
Fubaihui Wang1, Changqing Gao2, Yantao Wang3
1Social Science of Sport Research Center, China Institute of Sport Science, Beijing, China.
JMIR Public Health and Surveillance
|May 30, 2024
Summary
Regular physical activity, especially above 500 MET minutes per week, significantly enhances cognitive function in older adults. Exercise motivations and facility access also correlate with better cognitive health.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology and Public Health
- Exercise Science and Cognitive Function
Background:
- Existing research highlights significant gaps in understanding how to prescribe exercise for cognitive health.
- Healthcare providers require clearer guidance on exercise interventions for maintaining cognitive function in aging populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between physical activity levels and cognitive function in Chinese older adults.
- To explore how specific exercise behaviors (type, motivation, accessibility) influence cognitive function.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the 2016 China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey (CLASS).
- Assessed cognitive function using a modified Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE).
- Collected physical activity data via self-report questionnaires and analyzed using ordinary least squares regression.
Main Results:
- An inverted U-shaped relationship was observed between physical activity (MET minutes/week) and cognitive scores.
- Significant positive associations were found for physical activity levels between 500-1499 MET minutes/week.
- Exercise for fitness/health, and use of sports facilities, were linked to higher cognitive function.
Conclusions:
- Exercise is a promising intervention for preventing age-related cognitive decline and dementia.
- Informed exercise recommendations can address the public health challenge of an aging population.
- Findings support tailored exercise strategies to maintain and improve cognitive health in older adults.
