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Identifying Exercise Interventions That May Slow the Progression of Cognitive Decline in Older Adults With Mild
Kerstin Castro1,2, Jo Ann M Bamdas3, Maria D Ortega4
1Medical School, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Spartanburg, USA.
Abstract:
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is defined as the stage between normal cognitive changes that may occur with age and more serious symptoms that indicate dementia. Symptoms of MCI can include problems with thinking, judgment, memory, and language, but the loss does not significantly interfere with the ability to handle everyday activities. A wide range of evidence demonstrates that aerobic, strength training, and combined exercises can slow the progression of cognitive impairment. However, few research studies in the United States exist, possibly due to an over-reliance on pharmacological intervention. To answer our research question, we performed a scoping review analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to locate published studies showing the types of exercise interventions using cognitive measures that benefit communities of older adults. Using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension Scoping Reviews guidelines, the authors searched five databases, namely, PubMed, GALE, Wiley Online Library, EBSCOHost, and OVID, for exercise intervention programs and slowing the progression of cognitive decline in older adults with MCI. All searches were performed between September 2022 and February 2023. In summary, we analyzed 10 international RCTs with 1,075 participants (mean age of over 50 years), but only 668 people were included in the control or experimental group. Combining exercise modalities in the intervention groups versus control groups prompted more beneficial results, improving global cognitive functioning. Resistance training shows promise as an exercise modality suitable for older adults to slow the progression of cognitive impairment.
Insights
Regular exercise, including resistance training and combined modalities, can significantly slow cognitive decline in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This approach offers a promising alternative to pharmacological interventions for improving cognitive function.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology and Cognitive Neuroscience
- Exercise Physiology and Public Health
Background:
- Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) represents a transitional stage between normal aging and dementia, characterized by cognitive deficits not significantly impacting daily life.
- Evidence suggests exercise interventions can mitigate cognitive decline, yet research in the U.S. is limited, potentially due to a focus on pharmaceutical treatments.
- Identifying effective exercise strategies is crucial for managing MCI in aging populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a scoping review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating exercise interventions for older adults with MCI.
- To identify specific exercise types and cognitive measures associated with slowing cognitive progression in this demographic.
- To evaluate the efficacy of different exercise modalities in improving cognitive function among older adults.
Main Methods:
- A scoping review was performed following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, searching five major databases (PubMed, GALE, Wiley, EBSCOHost, OVID).
- Searches focused on RCTs examining exercise interventions and cognitive decline in older adults with MCI, conducted between September 2022 and February 2023.
- Ten international RCTs involving 1,075 participants (668 in intervention/control groups) were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Combined exercise modalities demonstrated more significant benefits for global cognitive functioning compared to control groups.
- Resistance training emerged as a particularly promising intervention for older adults experiencing MCI.
- The review identified international studies, highlighting a need for more U.S.-based research.
Conclusions:
- Exercise interventions, particularly combined modalities and resistance training, are effective in slowing cognitive decline in older adults with MCI.
- Non-pharmacological approaches like exercise should be considered for managing MCI.
- Further research, especially within the U.S., is warranted to explore exercise's role in cognitive health for aging populations.
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