Cognitive performance and active lifestyle in community-dwelling older adults

An active lifestyle promotes physical and mental health, improves social interaction, and provides cognitive stimulation, positively influencing mood and cognitive performance. However, lifestyle habits changed substantially after March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly among high-risk groups such as older adults.

To investigate the relationship between an active lifestyle and cognitive performance in community-dwelling older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A cross-sectional study of 50 older adults enrolled at a community center was conducted. Cognitive status was assessed using the Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination, whereas psychosocial indicators were assessed using the Control, Autonomy, Self-realization and Pleasure Scale, the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale, and the Geriatric Depression Scale. Leisure-time activities were assessed using the Brazilian Portuguese version of the Minnesota Leisure Time Activities Questionnaire, based on retrospective self-report of activities performed over the previous 12 months.

Participants with greater engagement in the activities investigated had better cognitive performance (p=0.021) and fewer depressive symptoms, although the difference was not statistically significant (p=0.060). Physical activity was associated with fewer anxiety symptoms (p=0.013) and greater autonomy (p=0.047). Engagement in intellectually stimulating activities was associated with better performance across all cognitive domains assessed.

An active lifestyle was associated with better cognitive functioning and mental health in older adults.