Longitudinal associations between physical performance and cognition in individuals with Parkinson's disease

Declines in physical performance and cognition commonly occur in people with Parkinson's disease (PwPD) and negatively impacts Quality of Life. Understanding the cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between physical performance and cognition may provide guidance to prevent or treat their decline in PwPD.

This study investigated the cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between physical performance and cognition in PwPD.

Physical performance and cognition were evaluated at baseline and at two-year follow-up in PwPD. Physical performance was measured using Ten-Set Test, Time Up and Go, Physical Performance Test, and Short-Physical Performance Battery Test. Neuropsychological assessments included global cognition and domain-specific cognitive functions from which Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) status was ascertained. Regression analyses estimated baseline associations between physical performance and cognition and if changes in physical performance were associated with changes in cognition. Sub-analysis determined which physical performance test was most significantly associated with cognition.

At baseline, better physical performance was associated with lower odds of having MCI as well as better global cognition, attention, and executive function. Baseline physical performance was also associated with changes in executive function and attention (baseline to two-year follow-up). PwPD experiencing greater decline in physical performance experienced more decline in executive function and visuospatial skills.

Physical performance and cognition are closely inter-related in PwPD. Findings are clinically relevant since impaired physical performance may inform those PwPD most likely to demonstrate greatest cognitive deficits over time and who may benefit from treatment strategies, such as neurorehabilitation, for improving cognition and reducing its decline.