Influence of the physical activity on the cognitive functions with people depending on their age

• Published in: Medicinski arhiv 2012, Vol.66 (4), p.271-275
• Main Author: Pluncevic, Jasmina
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aging - physiology; Cognition - physiology; Exercise - physiology; Humans; Young Adult
• ISSN: 0350-199X; 1986-5961
• DOI: 10.5455/medarh.2012.66.271-275

In comparison with the number of studies which have examined the physical activity influence on the cognitive capabilities with the adults (above 60 years of age), researches for children, adolescents and young adult population are rarely done. The examination of the potential connection, role or influence between Physical Activity and cognition during early age (the first third of the human life) is very complex and subtle due to a large number of external factors which are present in the period during which the cognitive capabilities are still being developed. Regular physical activity improves the physiological and psychological aspect of human health. Due to the well known advantages and benefits from the physical activity, one would expect it to be more present in the life of contemporary man. But it is a fact that the level of physical activity with people decreases in the course of lifetime, especially in the period when young people move from secondary school to university. The decrease of the physical activity additionally increases the pressure over the young academic persons. There is not enough literature which examines the connection of the neuropsychological indicators and physical activity with young adults. It is obvious the need for further researches in this field which will create a solid base for the connection of the physical activity and cognition, the same one that is found for the adult population. Within the frame of positive role the physical activity has over the cognitive health, it is suggested as a means of reducing the risk of developing cognitive decrease connected with getting old. Future vast randomized researches and interventions would have to test the quantity and the type of physical activity which would be recommended in order to prevent or postpone the cognitive decrease.