The role of physical function and physical activity on cognitive function in the elderly

• Published in: Global transitions 2024, Vol.6, p.85-92
• Main Authors: Qi, Chengyan, Wang, Xianyun, Li, Dajun, Ding, Huini, Shen, Jing, Jiao, Yuning, Lu, Wangziyan, Xi, Yuandi
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Body composition; Mild cognitive impairment; Nested case-control study; Physical activity; Physical function
• ISSN: 2589-7918; 2589-7918
• DOI: 10.1016/j.glt.2024.02.002

The aim of this study is to clarify the role of physical activity level and physical function on cognitive function of the elderly. A nested case–control investigation from a middle-aged and elderly cognitive health cohort was conducted. 103 mild cognitive impairment (MCI) patients were selected for the purpose of the study and matched 1:1 according to age and sex. Handgrip strength, gait speed and 5-time chair stand test were used to evaluate physical function. The physical activity scale for the elderly (PASE) was used to assess physical activity level. The Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) was used to quickly screen the mild cognitive impairment of the subjects. Body composition was estimated by bioelectrical impedance analysis. The total score of MoCA and the scores of different cognitive domains in two groups were different, handgrip strength was lower in the MCI group. Multivariate logistic regression model results showed that handgrip strength decreased could increase the risk of MCI(OR = 3.008, 95%CI: 1.421,6.369), higher PASE score was correlated with lower risk of MCI (OR = 0.402, 95%CI: 0.168,0.966). After combining body composition indices, handgrip strength and PASE score remained significantly associated with the occurrence of MCI, and there is an interaction. Logistic regression models were used for receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, all models demonstrate a good level of predictive performance for MCI. Physical activity level and physical function are associated with mild cognitive impairment. Higher physical activity level, normal handgrip strength are correlated with lower risk of MCI. •According to reports, the elderly with declined cognitive function also have a significantly higher rate of decline in physical functions, physical activity level may also be a potential factor for the development and progression of cognitive impairment in the elderly.•This study provides valuable evidence for the protective effects of physical function and physical activity levels on cognitive function impairment in the elderly.•This study found that decreased handgrip strength and higher PASE score could increase and decrease the risk of MCI, respectively, and there was an interaction after combining the body composition indices.