Sex differences in the association between cognitive function and 24-hour activity patterns in older adults: a...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Neuroscience
• Public Health

Background:

• Cognitive decline is common in older adults and may influence daily activities.
• Previous research has not examined 24-hour activity patterns in relation to cognitive decline.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between cognitive function and 24-hour activity behaviors in older adults.
• To explore sex differences in these associations.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional analysis of 814 older adults from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE).
• Cognitive function assessed using SHARE-Cog (memory, verbal fluency).
• 24-hour activity behaviors (physical activity, sedentary behavior, sleep) objectively measured using accelerometers.

Main Results:

• Higher moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) correlated with better cognitive function.
• Sedentary behavior and longer sleep duration were linked to poorer cognitive outcomes.
• These associations were significantly stronger in women, with activity patterns showing greater sensitivity to cognitive changes in females.
• Men's activity composition did not significantly vary with cognitive function.

Conclusions:

• Better cognitive function in older adults is associated with increased physical activity and reduced sedentary time and sleep.
• Sex differences exist, with women's activity behaviors being more strongly influenced by cognitive function.
• Interventions promoting healthy lifestyles should consider cognitive status, especially for women.