Cognitive function, balance, and physical activity among perimenopausal and postmenopausal women: a cross-sectional...

This study aimed to examine cognitive function, physical performance, balance, and physical activity among perimenopausal and postmenopausal women, and to explore the relationships among these domains.

In this cross-sectional study, 220 women were equally allocated into perimenopausal and postmenopausal groups. Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), physical performance using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), and balance using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Physical activity levels were evaluated using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was performed to compare group differences while controlling for age and body mass index (BMI). Partial correlation analyses were conducted to examine associations among variables after adjustment for age, BMI, and menopausal status.

After controlling for age and BMI, no significant differences were observed between perimenopausal and postmenopausal women in MMSE [F(1,216) = 1.09, p = 0.297], SPPB [F(1,216) = 1.48, p = 0.226], or BBS scores [F(1,216) = 0.30, p = 0.583]. Similarly, physical activity levels did not differ significantly between groups (p > 0.05). Significant positive correlations were identified between MMSE and SPPB scores (r = 0.413, p < 0.001), MMSE and BBS scores (r = 0.136, p = 0.046), and SPPB and BBS scores (r = 0.455, p < 0.001). IPAQ scores were not significantly associated with cognitive or functional outcomes.

Cognitive function, physical performance, and balance appear to be interrelated in midlife women. However, menopausal status alone was not independently associated with these outcomes after adjustment for age and BMI. These findings underscore the importance of integrated functional assessment strategies to support healthy aging in women during the menopausal transition.