Preserved muscle function as a protective factor against cognitive decline: Longitudinal results from the FINGER...

Muscular function is essential for healthy aging. This study examined the relationship between baseline muscle condition and changes in cognitive performance over 2 years.

We conducted an observational analysis of longitudinal data from the control arm of the Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability (FINGER) randomized controlled trial (n = 583). Baseline physical performance was assessed using gait speed, grip strength, and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Logistic regression models analyzed associations between baseline physical performance and changes in standardized cognitive scores after 2 years.

Mean age was 68.6 years. Higher baseline chair stand performance, SPPB scores, and grip strength were significantly associated with more favorable 2-year trajectories in global cognition, memory, and executive function (p < 0.05), particularly for memory. Gait speed showed no significant associations.

Better initial physical condition is linked to more favorable cognitive evolution, independent of other factors. This highlights the connection between physical and cognitive health, supporting comprehensive preventive strategies for older adults.

Stronger muscles are linked to slower cognitive decline before it begins. Better performance of muscular function protects against cognitive impairment in aging. Intervening muscle health impacts brain health in aging.