Association between balance ability and memory function in community-dwelling older adults: A cross-sectional study

Exercise is a commonly recommended non-pharmacological intervention for the prevention of dementia. However, selection of the most appropriate and effective exercise requires clarification of the relationship between types of motor and cognitive functions. We aimed to determine motor functions that might be related to cognitive function. The study participants were 49 community-dwelling older adults with normal cognitive function (74.33 ± 6.16 years old). Cognitive function was evaluated using the Addenbrooke cognitive examination-III (ACE-III) and motor function by hand grip strength, 30-second chair stand test, walking speed, and unipedal stance time with eyes open (UPST). Physical activity was measured by wireless activity meter. Univariate regression analysis showed that age, skeletal muscle mass index, UPST, step count, and Exercise (METs・h) were significantly associated with ACE-III total scores. In multiple linear regression analysis, ACE-III total scores and UPST were significantly associated in Model 1 (β = 0. 337, P = .025), Model 2 (β = 0.349, P = .016), Model 3 (β = 0.337, P = .023), and Model 4 (β = 0.379, P = .007). The ACE-III memory domain and UPST had a significant association in Model 1 (β = 0.317, P = .045), Model 2 (β = 0.350, P = .022), and Model 4 (β = 0.301, P = .037). Better balance ability was associated with better cognitive function, particularly memory performance, in our cohort of cognitively normal older adults. Balance assessment may serve as a simple adjunctive indicator of cognitive health.